Canadian Envoy Meets Naveen Patnaik to Discuss Odisha Trade, Investment

BHUBANESWAR, India — Canadian High Commissioner to India Christopher Cooter met Odisha Leader of Opposition and Biju Janata Dal president Naveen Patnaik on Friday during a courtesy visit at Patnaik’s residence in Bhubaneswar.

The Canadian delegation reportedly discussed several issues related to Odisha, including Canada’s potential role in trade, investment and the state’s broader economic development.

The meeting followed Cooter’s courtesy call Thursday on Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo at Lok Seva Bhawan. The high commissioner, accompanied by his wife, discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between India and Canada, with a special focus on Odisha.

The talks covered agri-exports, technology collaboration and bilateral trade, according to an official statement.

Singh Deo highlighted Odisha’s role in mineral production, noting that the state accounts for 92% of India’s chromite reserves and has significant rare earth mineral deposits along its coastline. The two sides also discussed opportunities for foreign direct investment in mining and value-added industries.

The Canadian delegation expressed interest in investment opportunities in Odisha’s automobile sector.

The discussions also focused on expanding bilateral trade and using technology partnerships to support sustainable industrial growth. Singh Deo briefed the delegation on Odisha’s history, heritage and agricultural sector, saying the state is seeking global partnerships that bring technology, investment and market access while supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.

Odisha has been placed in the “Achiever” state category in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business report and has attracted global investors through policy stability, infrastructure and an industry-ready ecosystem.

The state is also expected to play a major role in India’s green hydrogen plans. Of the three proposed green hydrogen hubs in India, two are slated for Odisha, at Paradeep and Gopalpur. Officials said the hubs are expected to support the state’s shift from conventional energy to renewable energy and strengthen its position in green technology and decarbonization.

Singh Deo said Canada has expressed interest in investing in clean energy and industrial cooperation projects. (Source: IANS)