Embassy of India
Bucharest
Press Release
Subject: Embassy of India, Bucharest Hosts “Circular Economy & Waste Management Forum”
Embassy in collaboration with Ubuntu World, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Green Pack, Romania successfully organized the “Circular Economy & Waste Management Forum” in hybrid format on 7 May 2026 at the Embassy premises in Bucharest. The Forum brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, sustainability experts, financial institutions, and businesses from India and Romania to discuss opportunities for bilateral cooperation in circular economy, waste management, recycling, sustainability, and green innovation.
The event commenced with opening remarks by Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Ambassador of India to Romania, who emphasized the importance of strengthening India–Romania cooperation in sustainable development, environmental protection, and green technologies. Highlighting sustainability as a key driver of future economic growth, the Ambassador noted the vast potential for collaboration between Indian and Romanian companies in circular economy practices, recycling technologies, waste management, and sustainable industrial solutions. He also underlined India’s strong commitment to climate action and resource efficiency through initiatives promoting renewable energy, waste management, and green innovation. Referring to Romania’s strategic position within the European Union, the Ambassador highlighted its potential role as an important bridge connecting Indian businesses with European markets and sustainability frameworks.
Ms. Ana Maria Paraschiv, CEO of Ubuntu World, welcomed the participants and stressed the importance of collaborative international platforms for addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable business models. Mr. Utsav Dixit, Chair of the CII-IPP Advisory Committee (2026–27) and Chief Sustainability and Growth Officer of ALPLA India Private Limited, joined virtually and shared perspectives on industry-led sustainability initiatives and the growing importance of circular economy practices for future economic resilience.
The keynote session featured Ms. Mihaela Frăsineanu, State Counsellor at the Prime Minister’s Office of Romania, who highlighted Romania’s commitment to sustainability and the importance of international cooperation in achieving environmental goals. A special online intervention by Ms. Shalini Goyal Bhalla from the Circular Economy Coalition / NITI Aayog focused on India’s policy framework and emerging opportunities in circular economy and resource efficiency.
The expert panel discussion on “Waste Management and Circular Economy: Romania as a Bridge between the EU and India” was moderated by Mr. Mircea Ilie of Viitor Plus. The panel explored strategic, economic, and business dimensions of India–Romania cooperation in the sustainability sector. Mr. Radu Magdin, CEO of Smartlink Communications, discussed Romania’s geopolitical and economic role as a gateway connecting India with European markets. Mr. Alex Laibar, Executive Director of the Circular Economy Coalition (CERC), highlighted evolving trends and policy priorities in circular economy implementation across Europe. Mr. Rituraj Somani, CEO of Green Pack, shared industry experiences and market insights in sustainable packaging and recycling solutions. Ms. Corina Vulpeș, Director at Exim Banca Românească, elaborated on financial instruments, state guarantees, and export support mechanisms available for green business initiatives.
The Forum also featured dedicated B2B and matchmaking sessions involving representatives from leading Indian companies and organizations, including Reliance Industries, Recykal, Ganesha Ecosphere Ltd., Saahas Zero Waste Pvt Ltd, and UNIPHOS International Limited. These interactions enabled participants to explore partnerships, technology exchange, investment opportunities, and business collaboration in the field of sustainability and waste management.
Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to promoting India–Romania cooperation in emerging sectors such as sustainability, green technologies, and circular economy, in line with global efforts towards environmentally responsible and sustainable development.
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Bucharest
Friday, 08 May 2026
