AirAsia Group is pleased to be part of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's visit to India, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Malaysia.

Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, AirAsia Berhad Executive Chairman and AirAsia X Group CEO said, "As a key member of Malaysian India Business Council (MIBC), we are pleased to be invited to be part of the delegation, and participate in the business forum which was co-organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). We were able to provide input on various matters which are key to facilitate social economic development, trade investments and tourism between both countries; which are vital elements in providing immediate contribution to the economy. On behalf of AirAsia Group, we would like to congratulate both governments for the productive discussions and meetings.

"We applaud Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib's announcement of multiple entry eVisa valid for 15 days as there is an urgent need to encourage Visa-free travel for Indians and Malaysians. This good news would certainly encourage tourists travelling between both countries and contribute to higher receipts from travel and tourism, which will then provide immediate contribution to economic growth.

"We are also pleased with the review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between India and Malaysia, and we would like to record our sincere appreciation to the Indian government for expanding the number of slots for Malaysian carriers to operate between the two countries. AirAsia as a group operates 109 international flights weekly to 13 destinations in India, which is relatively small as compared to the size of the country. We look forward to working closely with Tourism Malaysia and India to grow tourist arrivals on both end as we aim to provide wider connectivity between India, Malaysia and ASEAN.

"We at AirAsia can provide the connectivity to enable other industries to develop, grow and prosper especially in the tourism, infrastructure, health, education, socio-economic ties. We are confident this will generate greater economic contribution for both countries as tourism not only creates jobs, but leads to multiplier effect which will benefit various related industries."

Amar Abrol, MD & CEO of AirAsia India said, "AirAsia India is a living example of strategic partnerships. A joint venture by two large conglomerates, AirAsia India is in its growth phase. Welcoming its 9th Airbus A320, the airline recently announced Kolkata as its third hub that will connect to Ranchi and from there on to New Delhi. Standing true its promise, ‘Now Everyone Can Fly', AirAsia India, with 15 destinations and 3 hubs in Bengaluru, New Delhi and Kolkata will strive further towards connecting Tier I destinations to Tier II and III segments. It's an exciting year for us and we look forward to marking several milestones in the next few months."