Co-production pact will help exchange of ideas, technology: Johnston

Mumbai: Governor General of Canada, David Johnston, on Saturday said that the recently signed audio-visual co- production treaty between India and his country will lead to exchange of "concepts, thoughts, ideas, technology and creativity".

India and Canada earlier this week signed a co-production agreement which will enable collaboration among film producers from the two countries.

Johnston chaired a round-table meeting today on bilateral audio-visual co-production which was attended by several members of the Indian film and media industry. The meeting was held at the Whistling Woods Campus here.

"The aim of the discussion is to broaden bilateral ties. I feel the co-production treaty will lead to exchange of concepts, thoughts, ideas, technology and creativity. Exchange of art and culture between the two countries (will) create goodwill," he said.

"The agreement will enable Canadian and Indian producers to develop audio-visual co-production projects by combining their creative, technical and financial resources. We are committed to strengthening our partnership and co-operation," Johnston added.

Among those present at the discussion today were filmmakers Subhash Ghai, Mukesh Bhatt and Ketan Mehta.

"Canada has always been welcoming. We want producers from other countries to come here and make films and vice-versa. This treaty will be of great help to both countries," Ghai said.