Mr. Eric Garcetti, met with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai at CM House
TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 5, 2025: In a significant diplomatic meeting, US Ambassador to India, Mr. Eric Garcetti, met with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai at the Chief Minister’s residence in Raipur to discuss the potential for investment and development in Chhattisgarh. The meeting focused on enhancing economic ties between the US and the state, particularly in sectors such as defense, logistics, IT, and energy.
Ambassador Garcetti expressed his admiration for Chhattisgarh, calling it a “peaceful and beautiful state” and shared his excitement about being able to witness the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. “It has always been my dream to visit Chhattisgarh. I’ve heard a lot about its nature and tourist destinations, and I am glad to be here today,” said Garcetti, highlighting his keen interest in partnering with the state for its growth.
Investment Opportunities and Collaborative Efforts
The conversation between the two leaders delved into Chhattisgarh’s potential as an investment hub, with both the Chief Minister and Ambassador Garcetti emphasizing the state’s surplus power generation capabilities. “Chhattisgarh is rich in energy resources, and there are immense possibilities for investment in sectors like energy, defense, logistics, IT, and semiconductors,” said Ambassador Garcetti. He added that American companies would be encouraged to explore business opportunities in the state, which has created a favorable environment for global investors through its new industrial policies.
Chief Minister Shri Sai briefed Ambassador Garcetti on the state’s ongoing development projects, including efforts to create infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and promote sustainable growth. The Chief Minister also emphasized that Chhattisgarh, with its rich mineral reserves and large forest areas, was poised to be an ideal location for investment, particularly with its efforts to enhance connectivity through rail, air, and road networks.
Promoting Chhattisgarh’s Culture and Tourism
In addition to economic matters, the two leaders discussed the cultural aspects of Chhattisgarh, with Chief Minister Sai inviting Ambassador Garcetti to visit the Bastar region, known for its natural beauty and tribal culture. “Bastar is a beautiful part of our state, and I encourage you to visit with your family,” said Chief Minister Sai. Ambassador Garcetti agreed, stating, “I will definitely visit Bastar with my family.” The Chief Minister also shared details of the Bastar Olympics, a local initiative that has successfully engaged the community in sports, peacebuilding, and social cohesion.
Ambassador Garcetti expressed his admiration for the region’s spirit, suggesting that Olympic-winning athletes from the state be invited to participate in the Bastar Olympics, further promoting the region globally. He also extended an invitation to Chief Minister Sai to attend the 2028 Olympic Games in the US, which the Chief Minister warmly accepted.
A Personal Connection and Chhattisgarh’s Vision
The meeting was characterized by a warm and friendly exchange, with both leaders discussing not only state and national issues but also their personal interests. Chief Minister Sai praised Ambassador Garcetti’s enthusiasm for Bhangra dancing and his fondness for Hindi cinema music. In a lighthearted moment, Garcetti expressed his love for tea, which he enjoyed with the Chief Minister during the meeting. “I love tea,” Garcetti remarked as he sipped tea with the Chief Minister and sampled local delicacies like jaggery rasgulla.
The Chief Minister also shared his vision for Chhattisgarh’s development, highlighting the state’s strategic location, its abundant mineral resources, and the challenges faced, particularly in the tribal-dominated Bastar region. He outlined the efforts to promote peace and improve living standards in these areas, including the Niyyad Nella Nar scheme, which provides basic facilities to remote communities. “Our government is committed to the inclusive development of the state,” said Chief Minister Sai.
A Collaborative Future
In closing, both leaders expressed their commitment to deepening the relationship between the US and Chhattisgarh. Ambassador Garcetti reiterated the importance of collaboration in various sectors, while Chief Minister Sai emphasized the state’s openness to foreign investment and its role in India’s economic growth.
The meeting, attended by key officials, marked an important step towards building stronger ties between the US and Chhattisgarh, with a shared vision for progress and prosperity.
