The Indo-Bahrain Trade Fest (IBF) will explore prospects of strengthening cooperation between the two countries in health, education, trade, tourism, information technology, telecom, banking, infrastructure, real estate and other vital sectors, organizers said.

The three-day event, which will be held in Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Center from Nov. 8 to 10, includes a cultural festival, seminars on important topics, a talent show, a career expo and an art exhibition featuring artists from India and across the Gulf Cooperation Council.

The IBF highlights the historic relations between India and Bahrain, said organizers.

According to the IMF, bilateral trade between Bahrain and India rose to $ 1.7 billion in 2011 alone. India’s share of Bahrain’s total foreign trade was 4.1 percent between 2005-2010.

Bahrain’s Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro will inaugurate the festival, which is held in association with the Indian Embassy in Manama. “The Fest promises to provide the stakeholders a one-of-its-kind opportunity to participate, know and grow,” said Kamal Mohiyuddin, event coordinator.

IBF provides a platform to bring together businesses from both countries by providing the perfect opportunity to highlight products and services as well as investment opportunities.

“The event will be a brilliant blend of information and festivity providing a delightful and thrilling experience,” said Mohiyuddin.

Apart from members from Bahrain’s business community, the audience will also include representatives from across the GCC.

Speaking about the talent hunt program, Mohiyuddin said it would cover all students in Bahrain to find out exceptional talents.

“The students can belong to any nationality, residing in Bahrain,” he said, adding that school and college managements would be encouraged to nominate candidates.

At least 20,000 students and parents are expected to attend the show.

“A team of judges will assess the performances of participants and the winners will be honored at the IBF,” he said.

Indian and Bahraini educational institutions will attend a career expo to showcase their courses.

Mohiyuddin highlighted India’s economic progress, saying it is getting closer to become a super power.

“India has the fastest growing population of skilled workers and consumers and has established its leadership in IT and knowledge-based industries globally,” he added.

Indian entrepreneurs are making waves all over the world- creating, innovating and winning in all aspects of business; whether it be building the world’s largest steel company or being the brain behind major Information Technology innovations or acquiring luxury brands like Jaguar and Range Rover.

The Indian government is targeting to double exports to $ 500 billion by 2015 while Indian imports have amounted to a staggering $ 470 billion.

According to UNCTAD’s World Investment Prospects Survey 2010-2012, India is the second-most attractive destination for FDI in the world.