Chief Minister Mann acknowledged the longstanding emotional connection between the United Kingdom.

Punjab-UK Strategic Dialogue: CM Mann Drives Collaboration Across Key Industrial Sectors

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann recently presided over a Punjab-UK Strategic Dialogue, highlighting the state's drive to secure robust business and strategic alliances with Britain. Meeting with British Deputy High Commissioner Alba Samariglio and representatives from several UK multinational corporations, the Chief Minister expressed a strong desire for partnerships across both traditional and emerging industries. He identified five specific sectors for immediate cooperation: agriculture and food processing, textiles, engineering, auto components, and higher education. Furthermore, he noted potential for growth in emerging fields like information technology, health services, pharmaceuticals, and business services.

Detailing the state’s competitive advantages, CM Mann pointed to Punjab’s world-class connectivity, supported by five airports and a comprehensive network of national highways that facilitate easy access to global and domestic markets. He noted that the state’s workforce is not only highly skilled but also peaceful and affordable, positioning Punjab as a premier destination for international investors.

To streamline the entry of foreign capital, the Chief Minister highlighted the 'Invest Punjab' initiative. This single-window system utilises a "deemed approval" process to ensure all necessary clearances are granted within specific timeframes. This system, along with a fast-track portal, is designed to reduce compliance burdens and increase investor confidence. 

Articulating his future vision, the Chief Minister emphasised the government's commitment to accelerating economic progress. During extensive discussions with UK-linked stakeholders and senior company representatives, many participants reflected on their historical connections to Punjab. Highlighting the state’s dependable power, robust infrastructure, and favourable investment climate, CM Mann extended a warm invitation to UK investors to initiate or grow their enterprises within the state. 

He specifically invited them to the 2026 Punjab Progressive Investors Summit in Mohali, proposing a dedicated UK session. He acknowledged attendees like Hindustan Unilever, Tynor, Munjal Birmingham University, Bedford School, Ganga Acrowools, Rockpacker, and Netsmartz.

The Chief Minister noted that fresh UK ventures could generate significant employment for local youth while encouraging firms to implement new technologies for eco-friendly initiatives and stubble management.

Chief Minister Mann acknowledged the longstanding emotional connection between the United Kingdom and Punjab and described the UK as a reliable partner for India and specifically for Punjabis, who are eager to solidify these ties. To promote superior education and innovation, he urged British universities to establish campuses in Mohali and other regional areas for collaborative research. The Chief Minister also called upon the Punjabi diaspora and UK industrialists to serve as brand ambassadors to draw further investment to the state. Additionally, he endorsed the request for direct flights connecting Mohali and London. 

Noting Punjab’s global reputation for producing top-tier bicycles, auto parts, and sports equipment, he said that UK partnerships would help these industries grow and better integrate into global value chains through intensified industrial collaboration.

Chief Minister Mann reaffirmed the state government's dedication to providing comprehensive support to investors, emphasising a desire to strengthen alliances with the UK in skill development, innovation, and sustainability. He highlighted Punjab’s high ranking for "Ease of Doing Business" by the Government of India. Due to Mohali’s robust infrastructure, dependable power, and strong ecosystem, both international and domestic IT companies are eager to establish operations there. 

British Deputy High Commissioner Mrs Alba Samariglio noted that active collaborations would bolster bilateral relations. She expressed that engaging with Punjabi diaspora industrialists has been productive, observing significant potential for deepening cooperation between the UK and Punjab across various sectors to achieve mutual growth and stronger international ties.