Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann bats for strategic tie-up with UK to develop state as hub of manufacturing
Chandigarh
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday advocated for a strategic partnership between Punjab and the United Kingdom to further develop the state as a hub for investment and manufacturing.
During a meeting with a senior delegation from the UK High Commission in Chandigarh, led by Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio, Mann emphasized the importance of strengthening business ties. Both sides expressed a strong commitment to deepening economic cooperation.
Highlighting Mohali as one of the world’s best-organized cities, the CM showcased Punjab’s potential to emerge as a manufacturing powerhouse. He also assured full government support for students seeking educational and professional opportunities in the UK through legal and safe pathways.
Addressing cross-border challenges such as organized crime, Mann noted that Punjab is ready to collaborate with the UK on legal matters and provide necessary assistance. He extended a warm invitation to UK companies, positioning Punjab as a prime destination for investment.
The CM highlighted the global influence of the Punjabi diaspora and identified key sectors for investment, including agro-machinery, food processing, and IT. He emphasized Punjab’s investor-friendly ecosystem, featuring reasonable power tariffs, land facilities, and a transparent single-window system.
Mann also invited the delegation to participate in the upcoming Progressive Punjab Investors Summit (PPIS) in Mohali in March, presenting the state as a “land of opportunities” for global companies. He projected Mohali as the “next Silicon Valley,” citing its international airport, vast talent pool within a 100 km radius, and robust infrastructure as ideal for business expansion.
He urged the UK delegation to explore investment opportunities across Punjab’s diverse sectors, underscoring that such initiatives would boost economic activity while creating employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
Responding to Mann’s address, the UK Deputy High Commissioner acknowledged the potential of the Punjabi diaspora and their significant resources available for investment in the state. The delegation expressed interest in seeing firsthand the opportunities Punjab offers across various sectors.
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