In a bid to enhance economic ties, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met UAE Ambassador to India, Dr Abdulnasser Jamal Alshaali, to explore trade, investment, and air connectivity between Punjab and the UAE.
During the meeting, Mann highlighted Punjab’s agricultural and industrial strengths, emphasizing the state’s potential to contribute to UAE’s food security through its expertise in food production, dairy, and agri-processing. He also underscored collaboration prospects in IT, logistics, healthcare, and education.
A key takeaway from the discussion was the proposal to establish a Joint Working Group (JWG) to identify and develop bilateral trade opportunities. Additionally, the UAE Ambassador raised the need for direct flights from Amritsar and Chandigarh to UAE cities to boost trade, tourism, and NRI travel.
Mann assured that he would soon take up the matter with the Union Civil Aviation Minister to secure approvals for direct flights. He emphasized that better air connectivity would not only facilitate easier travel for NRIs and businesspersons but also strengthen Punjab’s economic engagement with the UAE.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing commitment to expanding Punjab-UAE trade relations and fostering long-term investment partnerships.