Words of praise and advice on macro-economic issues by the Chief Economic Adviser to the Finance Ministry, Dr Kaushik Basu, could not convince the West Bengal Chief Minister, Ms Mamata Banerjee, to dilute her stand on opening up of the retail sector.
“Ms Mamata Banerjee is intelligent. But the argument on FDI is very complex. If it is explained to her, she will understand that it’s actually a win-win situation for the people of Bengal,” Dr Basu said at an interactive session in the city on Saturday.
However, Dr Basu’s remarks failed to break the ice.
Known for her opposition to FDI in retail, she reiterated her position by saying, “We are completely against FDI in retail, and we will continue to do so.”