New Delhi, Nov 20 : Continuing its efforts to provide impetus to relations with the Arab world, India will host a week-long conference here from December 2-7 to strengthen ties between the two sides through culture.

The week-long cultural extravaganza--'India-Arab Forum : Partnership Through Culture'--follows a similar meet between business people of the two sides. The meet will be organised by the External Affairs Ministry and FICCI.

The business meet--the India-Arab Partnership Forum Through Business'--was attended by 200 businessmen people and generated business worth of about 100 billion Dollars, including in real estate and manufacturing sector.

Mr N Ravi, Secretary (East) in the External Affairs Ministry, said at a press conference here today that the Conference will be inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Dr Amre Moussa, Secretary General, League of Arab States.

Twelve Arab countries will participate in the event which will be marked by seminars, film and cultural shows and exhibitions including a handicrafts fair.

A 200-member cultural troupe from Arab countries will also perform.

''This (the event) will bring out the essential facet of the close relations between India and the Arab world in modern era,'' Mr Ravi said.

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