Chandigarh, March 13: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann held a significant meeting with UAE Ambassador to India, H.E. Dr. Abdulnasser Jamal Alshaali, to discuss avenues for strengthening bilateral trade, investment and cultural exchange between Punjab and the UAE.

CM showcased Punjab as a land of opportunities

During the meeting, the Chief Minister showcased Punjab as a land of opportunities. He highlighted its strong agricultural base, industrial potential, and rapidly growing business ecosystem. He emphasized that Punjab and the UAE share a natural synergy in trade. This synergy can be leveraged for mutual benefit in commerce. CM Punjab pointed out Punjab’s stronghold in food production, dairy, and agri-processing. He stated that Punjab can play a pivotal role in meeting UAE’s food security needs. He also underlined the potential for collaboration in IT, logistics, healthcare, and education. This collaboration can create new economic opportunities for both regions.

UAE ambassador Strengthening Collaboration and Air Connectivity

To provide structured direction for future collaborations, the proposal suggested establishing a Joint Working Group (JWG) to assess and explore potential areas of mutual interest and formulate strategies for enhancing trade and investments. A key issue raised during the discussion was the need for direct air connectivity between Punjab and UAE cities. The UAE Ambassador emphasized the importance of additional direct flights from Amritsar and Chandigarh (Mohali) airports to UAE to facilitate trade, investment, and tourism. CM Bhagwant Mann assured he will respond to this. He promised to take up the matter with the Union Civil Aviation Minister in the coming days.cm seeks approval for direct flights through UAE-based airlines. He stressed that enhanced connectivity will boost trade and tourism. It will also ease travel for thousands of NRIs, businesspersons, and professionals from Punjab.

Punjab Seeks Direct Flights to Boost Trade and Connectivity

The Chief Minister further stated that better air connectivity would not only strengthen economic ties. It would also reduce the logistical challenges faced by travelers. Currently, they have to travel to Delhi for UAE-bound flights. He expressed optimism that resolving this issue will unlock greater economic potential between Punjab and the UAE. The meeting concluded with a shared vision for expanding economic engagement and deepening Punjab-UAE relations, focusing on long-term trade and investment partnerships. The meeting was attended by Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Additional Chief Secretary Tejveer Singh, CEO Invest Punjab Amit Dhaka, and other senior officials of the Punjab Government.