Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann chaired the Punjab-UK Strategic Dialogue session. He stressed the need for strong strategic and business ties with Britain, especially in underused sectors.
During a meeting with British Deputy High Commissioner Alba Samariglio and representatives from various UK multinational companies, the Chief Minister said Punjab wants strong business partnerships with the UK in traditional and new emerging sectors. He listed five key areas for cooperation: higher education, textiles, engineering, auto components, and agriculture and food processing. He also highlighted emerging fields like pharmaceuticals and health services, IT, and business services.
CM Mann outlined Punjab's strengths in detail. He noted that the state has five airports and strong national highway links, providing world-class connectivity for smooth access to domestic and global markets.
The Chief Minister said Punjab has a highly skilled workforce, which is key to growth in every sector. He added that Punjab offers affordable and peaceful labor, making it a top choice for investors. He explained that the state has an integrated investment system called 'Invest Punjab'—a single-window facility. It gives all approvals within set time limits through a deemed approval process, building investor confidence. He also highlighted the fast-track portal and single-window services, which simplify processes, reduce compliance burdens, and make doing business in Punjab easier.
Sharing his vision for the future, the Chief Minister said the state government is making solid efforts to speed up economic growth. He held detailed talks with senior representatives from UK-linked companies and stakeholders, many of whom recalled their old ties with Punjab. CM Mann warmly invited UK investors to start or expand businesses in Punjab, citing its strong infrastructure, reliable power supply, and investor-friendly policies as ideal for investment.
He invited UK investors to the Punjab Progressive Investors Summit (PPIS) 2026 in Mohali and proposed a special UK-focused session. He welcomed companies like Tynor, Hindustan Unilever, Bedford School, Munjal Birmingham University, Ganga Acrowools, Netsmartz, Rockpacker, and others.
CM Mann said new UK investments could create large-scale jobs for Punjab's youth. He urged companies to explore new technologies and projects, especially for stubble management and eco-friendly solutions.
He told the delegation that Punjab's air quality index has improved a lot. Due to ongoing green efforts, it is now below 70 in many areas. He mentioned the 'Pahal' self-help groups for rural women, saying the Punjab government wants to make them the backbone of industry and manufacturing—just like China is called the world's factory. He also noted that Punjab has two civil aviation clubs, showing priority on aviation skills development.
Confirming the old emotional ties between Punjab and the UK, CM Mann said the UK has always been a trusted partner for India, especially Punjab, and Punjabis are ready to strengthen these bonds. He encouraged UK universities to set up campuses in Mohali and other parts of Punjab for joint research, innovation, and quality education. He appealed to UK industrialists and the Punjabi diaspora to act as brand ambassadors to attract investment to Punjab. He also supported their demand for direct Mohali-London flights.
The Chief Minister said Punjab is known worldwide for high-quality sports equipment, bicycle manufacturing, and auto parts. Partnerships with UK companies will expand these sectors and connect them better to global value chains. He advocated for deeper collaboration with UK industries.
CM Mann reiterated that the state government is committed to full support for investors. He said Punjab is eager to expand ties with the UK in innovation, sustainability, and skill development. He noted that the Government of India has ranked Punjab among top states for 'Ease of Doing Business'. With Mohali's strong ecosystem, reliable power, and solid infrastructure, Indian and foreign IT firms are keen to set up units here.
On this occasion, British Deputy High Commissioner Mrs. Alba Samariglio expressed hope that active partnerships will strengthen bilateral ties. She said working with Punjabi diaspora industrialists has been exciting, and there are huge opportunities to deepen cooperation between Punjab and the UK in many areas.