Bhubaneswar, May 8 (IANS) The High Commissioner of Canada to India, Christopher Cooter, during a courtesy call, met the Leader of Opposition in Odisha and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik at the latter’s residence here on Friday.

The Canadian delegation reportedly held important discussions with LoP Patnaik on a range of issues concerning Odisha, including the significant role Canada can play in the trade, investment, and overall economic development of the state.

Earlier on Thursday, the High Commissioner of Canada to India, accompanied by his wife, paid a courtesy call on Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister, at Lok Seva Bhawan as well. They had discussions covering a wide range of areas for strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Canada, with special focus on Odisha. Key sectors included agri-export, technology collaboration, and bilateral trade.

According to an official statement, the Deputy CM Singh Deo highlighted Odisha’s leadership in mineral production, noting that the State accounts for 92 per cent of India’s chromite reserves and has significant deposits of rare earth minerals along its coastline. The potential for foreign direct investment, especially in mining and value-added industries, was explored in detail. The Canadian delegation expressed keen interest in investment opportunities in Odisha’s automobile sector.

The two sides also discussed enhancing bilateral trade and leveraging technology partnerships for sustainable industrial growth. The Deputy CM briefed the delegation on the origin of Odisha, its rich heritage, and the current agricultural scenario, underscoring the State’s balanced approach to tradition and modern development. Singh Deo stated that Odisha welcomes global partnerships that bring technology, investment, and market access while ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth.

Notably, Odisha has been put under the ‘Achiever’ State category in the Ease of Doing Business report by the World Bank. The state is attracting global investors with its policy stability, infrastructure, and industry-ready ecosystem.

Out of the three Green Hydrogen Hubs proposed in India, two will be established in Odisha at Paradeep and Gopalpur. These hubs will anchor the state’s transition from conventional to renewable energy, positioning Odisha as a national leader in green technology and decarbonization.

Singh Deo noted that Canada has expressed interest in investing in dual projects related to clean energy and industrial cooperation.

–IANS

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