 Early Times Report
CHANDIGARH, Jan 16: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday underscored the need to strengthen trade relations with Canada, particularly British Columbia, to expand cooperation that delivers tangible benefits for businesses and people on both sides.
During a meeting with the Premier of British Columbia David Eby, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "Canada has always been a strong partner for India and Punjab, and we deeply value this relationship. We appreciate the strong trade and investment ties between Canada and Punjab and look forward to strengthening this foundation further." He added, "Punjab is fully prepared and enthusiastic to collaborate with Canadian businesses in sectors of mutual importance."
Highlighting Punjab's economic strengths, the Chief Minister said, "Punjab is a leader in agro-processing, textiles, engineering goods, IT services, and renewable energy. With robust infrastructure and a skilled workforce proficient in the English language, Punjab offers an ideal destination for Canadian investors."
He further noted, "Punjab ranks among the leading states in the country in Ease of Doing Business, and through Invest Punjab, we provide a single-window clearance system along with comprehensive investor support."
The Chief Minister pointed out that British Columbia's expertise aligns closely with Punjab's development priorities. "British Columbia's strengths in sustainable farming, food security, and greenhouse technologies align perfectly with Punjab's agricultural modernization goals. We foresee significant opportunities in precision farming, post-harvest systems, and value-added food processing," he said.
On education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, "Education and skill development is another promising area where partnerships with Canadian universities in research and vocational training can have a transformative impact."
Emphasising sector-wise opportunities, the Chief Minister said, "In healthcare and life sciences, there are immense opportunities for Canadian firms in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and telemedicine." He added, "Renewable energy is a shared priority, and Punjab welcomes joint ventures in solar parks and bio-energy projects."
Referring to technology, he said, "In IT and digital transformation, Punjab has strong potential for collaboration in cyber security, artificial intelligence, and agri-tech projects."
On manufacturing and trade, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "Manufacturing and engineering is another high-potential area. Canada's expertise in agricultural machinery and precision engineering can integrate well with Punjab's industrial clusters." |
