Representatives of the British telecom company on Friday met senior finance ministry officials, in search of an amicable solution.
After sending an international arbitration notice to the previous government, the company is now trying to initiate dialogue with the Narendra Modi-led government.
With the ministry officials, it also discussed its investment plans in the country.
“They came to talk to me about their plans for future investments; they are very enthused about the positive attitude of the new government. They are happy with their operations in the country,” Finance Secretary Arvind Mayaram said after the meeting.
Other than Mayaram, Matthew Kirk, Vodafone group external affairs director and former British Diplomatic Service officer, also met Revenue Secretary Rajiv Takru and Additional Secretary K P Krishnan.
“Nothing is cast in stone.
"They did not specifically discuss the arbitration issue but I got a sense they wanted to settle the matter,” said a ministry official, requesting anonymity.
Specifics of the case were not discussed, as it was just 'a courtesy call'.
It is believed the company might meet Finance Minister Arun Jaitley next.
It is also said to be trying for an appointment with Prime Minister Modi.
Despite the conciliatory signals, the company hasn’t withdrawn the arbitration notice served to the government on April 17.
The finance ministry was preparing a response to the notice and would appoint an arbitrator by June 15, said the official quoted earlier.
Sources said Vodafone representatives told ministry officials arbitration wasn’t
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