Kochi, Feb 21 (IANS): The fourth edition of Global Ayurveda Festival (GAF 2020), scheduled to be held here looks towards putting in place an international cooperation conclave so as to tap the potential of the global market place, research initiatives and medical tourism opportunities, said Union Minister V Muraleedharan .

V Muraleedharan, MoS,External Affairs and Chairman of the GAF said that the fourth edition which is to take place from May 16 to 20 will see more participation of international business, industry, academic and diplomatic participants across continents.

"The GAF looks towards putting in place an international cooperation conclave so as to tap the potential of the global market place, research initiatives and medical tourism opportunities. This time there will be several more entities from various ministries like Ayush, Commerce and Industry, MSME, Tourism, External Affairs, which will take the event to a new level," said Muraleedharan.

"GAF 2020 is encouraged by various Central government departments and also the Kerala State Government, will bring together the efforts of all committed members from various countries to place ayurveda as a global system of medicine," added the minister.