Tim Cook, CEO of tech giant Apple, on Thursday described the warmth of people in India as unparalleled and said he liked the vibrancy of its people and has already made some lifelong friends here.
"The main thing I have learnt about India is the warmth of people. It is unparalleled unlike any country I have ever been to, including my own," he said speaking at the inauguration of Apple's Map Development Centre here.
"I travelled to India this week to learn about the culture, learn about the people and learn how business is done. I have learnt a lot about all those, I still have a lot to learn. But most of all, I will leave India inspired. I am deeply inspired by the vibrancy of the people that I have met, the energy enthusiasm and incredible talent," Cook said.
The Apple CEO, who was in Mumbai on Wednesday, said it was an unbelievable day and that he has already made some lifelong friends.
Addressing Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao as "KCR", Cook remarked: "I love the informality and I can tell you already I love Hyderabad."
He said he took a tour and has already picked up how rich Hyderabad is in culture, history and tradition.
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Cook told the gathering that he also found there were various technologies here even in very early days. "I think history is repeating here," he said.
Cook said Apple had always been about creating the very best products in the world. "We always like to do products that enrich other people's life because we are driven as a culture by changing the world, changing it for the better," he added.
"We are honoured to be here. We hope to be a key partner of the community here and hope for lifelong friendship together," said the Apple CEO amid thunderous applause by the company employees and state officials.
Chief Minister Rao welcomed Apple for becoming a partner in the growth of Telangana and said this would improve the stature and profile of the youngest state in India.
KCR said the state has the best industrial policy in the country under which industries are given all clearances within a stipulated time of two weeks.
Telangana IT Minister K.T. Rama Rao requested Cook to open Apple's own campus in Hyderabad and also consider the state as its partner when they eventually decide to manufacture mobile phones.
He said the state would like to be a partner in Apple's growth story.
The minister said Hyderabad is the best city in India in terms of infrastructure, education and ecosystem. During the last 24 months, the city has attracted several big names and much investment.
--IANS
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