CM Patnaik meets envoys ahead of 'Make in Odisha Conclave'

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday showcased the investment opportunities in the state in front of envoys of 25 countries at an "Ambassadors' Meet" here.

Patnaik also invited them to participate along with their business delegations in the 'Make in Odisha Conclave' to be held at Bhubaneswar from November 30 to December 2 this year.

The envoys of 25 countries and the European Union attended the meet organised by the Ministry of External Affairs. Union Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Odisha Industries Minister Debi Prasad Mishra and other officials participated in the deliberations.

The Chief Minister said Odisha has undertaken crucial reforms in various sectors and improved governance, strengthened institutions and streamlined regulatory framework.

He urged the participating dignitaries from foreign missions to encourage companies and investors from their respective countries to explore Odisha as an investment destination as the state stands committed to ensuring 'Investor Delight' while welcoming entrepreneurs from across the globe for a mutually rewarding engagement.

The Chief Minister said the state is leveraging technology in a big way and the integration of business approvals with eBiZ platform and GIS-based land information system, GO-iPLUS have been undertaken to provide the hassle-free business environment.

He mentioned that the World Bank in their Business Reforms Report, 2015 has acknowledged the state's efforts for creating a conducive business environment with fast paced reforms and has recognised Odisha as an 'Aspiring Leader'.

He added that the state has formulated Odisha Industrial Development Plan - Vision 2025 to sustain the high growth trajectory, which envisages additional investments of over $35 billion and creation of additional employment of three million people.

Owing to a favourable business climate, Odisha secured about $11 billion investment commitments during 'Make in India' week held in February 2016 in Mumbai and $13 billion at the Bangaluru 'Investors' Meet' held in August 2016.

The Chief Minister underlined that Odisha is now a leading state of India which offers wide business opportunities in various mega investment regions including at Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region at Paradip, Information Technology Investment Region at Bhubaneswar and National Investment Manufacturing Zone at Kalinganagar.

--IANS

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