Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann meets UK delegation, promotes Mohali as manufacturing and IT hub, invites investment, and strengthens bilateral ties.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday advocated for a strategic partnership between the state and the United Kingdom (UK) to further develop Punjab as a center of investment and manufacturing.
During a meeting with a senior delegation from the UK High Commission in Chandigarh, led by Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of further strengthening business partnerships, with both parties expressing a firm commitment to deepen their relations. Bhagwant Mann recognized Mohall as one of the most well-organized cities worldwide and underscored Punjab’s strong potential to develop into a major manufacturing hub. Recognizing the enthusiasm of Punjab’s students to seek opportunities in the UK via lawful and secure channels, he assured their full support and cooperation from the state government in this matter.
The Chief Minister explicitly discussed transnational challenges such as organized crime, emphasizing that these issues extend beyond national borders. He also expressed Punjab’s willingness to cooperate with the United Kingdom on legal matters and any necessary support. He extended a warm and distinguished welcome to UK companies, positioning Punjab as a prioritized destination for investors. Bhagwant Singh Mann demonstrated the international impact of the Punjabi diaspora and highlighted key sectors for investment, such as agricultural apparatus, food processing, information technology, and others.
The Chief Minister informed the delegation that Punjab’s strong investment ecosystem provides competitive power tariffs, available land facilities, and a conducive environment for investors. He stated that the state is ranked first in Ease of Doing Business, supported by an efficient and transparent Single Window system. Notably, Bhagwant Mann stated that as a result of the diligent efforts of the state government, Punjab has become the first state to enact the Right to Business Act.
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The Chief Minister extended an invitation to the delegation to collaborate at the forthcoming Progressive Punjab Investors Summit (PPIS), scheduled to be held in Mohali during the month of March. He characterized Punjab as the “Land of Opportunities,” highlighting the presence of internationally renowned companies anxious to establish operations within the state, a testament to its stable law and order situation. Bhagwant Singh Mann also stated that Mohali has the potential to become the world’s “next Silicon Valley,” given its significant prospects in this domain.
The Chief Minister stated that Mohali possesses an international airport and a substantial talent reservoir within a 100 km radius, rendering it an ideal location for investment. He encouraged the delegation to investigate diverse regions of the state, promoting investment across various sectors to further accelerate the state’s development. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that it is essential to stimulate economic activity within the state while simultaneously creating employment opportunities for the youth.
Meanwhile, the UK Deputy High Commissioner recognized the significant potential of the Punjabi diaspora and the considerable funds they possess for investment in their homeland.
In response to inquiries regarding key sectors, the Chief Minister reaffirmed Punjab’s proactive investment environment and invited visits to demonstrate opportunities firsthand. Both Punjab and the UK concurred on the importance of enhancing bilateral relations to foster mutual growth, progress, and prosperity, while also promoting the development of trade and commerce.