DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday emphasized the need for stronger ties with the United Kingdom in key sectors such as textiles, horticulture, education, light engineering, sports, bicycle manufacturing, defence, and more.

During a meeting with British Deputy High Commissioner Caroline Rowett at his official residence this evening, the Chief Minister highlighted the age-old relationship between Punjab and the UK, noting the significant contribution of the Punjabi diaspora to the UK's economy. He underscored the importance of developing more ambitious and comprehensive agreements, particularly in the aforementioned sectors. Bhagwant Singh Mann advocated for the establishment of a structured communication mechanism between the Government of Punjab and the United Kingdom.

The Chief Minister said that such a framework would facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise, thereby promoting growth and prosperity on both sides. He said that There is tremendous potential for collaboration between Punjab and the UK particularly in these sectors of mutual importance. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that regular and direct communication in these fields will be mutually beneficial.

Raising a pressing concern, the Chief Minister drew attention to the exploitation of young people by unscrupulous visa agents who take advantage of their aspirations. He pointed out that these agents often make false promises and employ illegal methods, leading to severe financial and emotional losses for families. Bhagwant Singh Mann also sought further help from the British high commission to check this menace effectively by formulating joint strategy especially by awakening the people about right channel for visa.

Meanwhile, British Deputy High Commissioner Caroline Rowett praised the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led state government for its firm stance against drug abuse and commended the Chief Minister for his groundbreaking initiatives to promote sports across the state. She expressed optimism that the upcoming free trade agreement between India and the UK will prove beneficial for both Punjab and the UK. She also said that the British High Commission's 'Visa Fraud Ton Bacho' campaign and its WhatsApp chatbot, provides reliable information on safe and legal pathways to the UK adding that the Punjab government and UK can further motivate the people to have direct access to accurate guidance for visa

related information.

(editor@dailyworld.in)