GG News Bureau
Bhubaneshwar, 16th Nov. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi began a four-day visit to Singapore on Saturday, aiming to highlight the state’s investment opportunities to global investors. Accompanied by Industries Minister Sampad and other state officials, Majhi emphasized that the purpose of the trip was to position Odisha as a prime destination for investments in various sectors, including chemicals, green energy, logistics, and financial services.
Speaking to reporters before his departure, Majhi stated, “Our message will be clear that Odisha is open for business, and we are ready for it.” He expressed confidence that his visit would help attract businesses to the state, especially in industries where Singapore has a significant presence.
The Chief Minister noted that Odisha’s industries and resources, along with its skilled workforce and favorable industrial policy, made it an ideal investment destination. “We will meet with business leaders and make them aware of Odisha’s potential,” he added.
The trip, which aligns with the Bali Jatra festival celebrating Odisha’s maritime heritage, aims to explore potential collaborations with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers in Singapore. The visit is also strategically timed ahead of the Utkarsh Odisha 2025 Summit, scheduled for January 2025, where the state plans to attract significant investment.
The delegation’s agenda includes showcasing Odisha’s expanding infrastructure, fully operational ports at Dhamra, Paradip, and Gopalpur, and the state’s export potential. The delegation will visit Singapore’s Jurong Petrochemicals Region, Tuas Port, and ITEES to explore best practices in chemical, petrochemical, and infrastructure development.
Majhi is also scheduled to meet with Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, aiming to foster stronger diplomatic ties and collaboration in areas such as skill development and technical education.
The Odisha delegation also hopes to attract investment to bolster key sectors like manufacturing and electronics, with the Chief Minister emphasizing that when investors look to invest in India, Odisha should be their first choice.
Opposition Reaction: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has welcomed Majhi’s efforts to bring investment to the state. However, former industries minister Pratap Deb stressed the need for the state government to ensure a favorable environment to retain high-profile investments, citing the example of ArcelorMittal/Nippon Steel and JSW EV projects, for which MoUs have already been signed.
Comments are closed.