Bhubaneswar, May 8: Christopher Kutcher, the Canadian High Commissioner to India, met with Odisha’s Leader of Opposition (LOP) and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik at his residence on Friday. This meeting was part of a courtesy visit aimed at discussing several critical issues related to Odisha. Topics included trade, investment, and Canada’s role in the state’s economic development.
Earlier, on Thursday, the High Commissioner, accompanied by his wife, had a courtesy meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo at the Lok Seva Bhawan. During this meeting, both sides discussed various areas to strengthen cooperation between India and Canada, particularly concerning Odisha. Key discussion points included agricultural exports, technical collaboration, and trade.
According to an official statement, Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo highlighted Odisha’s mineral wealth. He noted that 92 percent of India’s total chromite reserves are found in Odisha, along with significant quantities of rare minerals in coastal areas. The conversation also delved into the potential for foreign investment in mining and related value-added industries. The Canadian delegation expressed keen interest in investing in Odisha’s automobile sector.
Both parties discussed enhancing trade and promoting sustainable industrial development through technical partnerships. The Deputy Chief Minister provided insights into Odisha’s history, rich heritage, and agricultural status. He emphasized that the state is progressing by balancing tradition with modern development and welcomes global partnerships that promote sustainable and inclusive growth through technology, investment, and market access.
Notably, Odisha has been categorized as an ‘Achiever’ state in the World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing Business’ report. The state is attracting global investors due to its policy stability, improved infrastructure, and industry-friendly environment.
Two of the proposed three green hydrogen hubs in India will be established in Odisha’s Paradip and Gopalpur. These hubs will play a crucial role in transitioning the state from traditional energy to renewable energy and position Odisha as a national leader in green technology and carbon emission reduction.
Singh Deo also mentioned that Canada has shown interest in investing in dual projects related to clean energy and industrial cooperation.
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