Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema hosted a high-level Canadian delegation at Punjab Bhawan in Chandigarh on Wednesday evening, following a formal request from the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi. The meeting aimed to strengthen international cooperation and deepen economic engagement between Punjab and the Canadian province of Alberta.
Delegation Led by Alberta Minister Rajan Sawhney
The Canadian delegation was led by Alberta Minister of Indigenous Relations Rajan Sawhney. Key members included Jatinder Singh Tatla, stakeholders administrator from the Office of the Premier; Happy Mann, senior adviser to the leader of the United Conservative Party of Alberta; Genevieve Turcotte, executive director of executive operations in the Department of Indigenous Relations; and other members such as Jagroop Khalon, Jaswinder Grewal, and Puneet Kumar Goyal.
Presentation on Punjab's Investment Potential
Officials from Invest Punjab delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the state's industrial opportunities and government initiatives to improve the ease of doing business. The delegation was briefed through a video and PowerPoint presentation on Punjab's industrial ecosystem and policy framework, showcasing the region's readiness for international partnerships.
Focus on Technology and Innovation
During the discussions, Rajan Sawhney expressed the delegation's keen interest in understanding the operational framework of Invest Punjab and appreciated the state government's proactive approach to promoting industrial growth. She noted that the visit was part of a broader India mission linked to India Energy Week, with meetings scheduled across major Indian centres to explore collaboration opportunities.
Sawhney emphasized that technology and innovation were key sectors where Alberta and Punjab could align their strengths for mutual development, paving the way for sustainable economic growth.
Punjab's Commitment to Long-Term Partnerships
Harpal Singh Cheema reaffirmed Punjab's commitment to building long-term international partnerships that extend beyond trade, focusing on sustainable development and shared prosperity. He stated that Punjab is open to meaningful collaborations that create value for both regions and strengthen economic ties through innovation-driven growth.
The finance minister was joined by key officials, including Milkfed chairman Narinder Singh Shergill, additional chief secretary (finance) Alok Shekhar, secretary (industries) Mohinder Pal, additional CEO of Invest Punjab Rubinderjit Singh Brar, and special secretary (power) Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar.
Shared Intent for Economic Corridor
The meeting reflected a shared intent to develop a durable economic corridor between Alberta and Punjab based on cooperation, innovation, and mutual trust. Both sides expressed optimism about future collaborations that could enhance bilateral economic relations and foster technological advancements.
