MEA Denies Clearance for CM Mann's UK, Israel Investment Trip
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In a surprise move, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has denied political clearance to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora for a proposed visit to the UK and Israel. The trip, scheduled for next month, aimed to invite business leaders to invest in Punjab ahead of the Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit in Mohali from March 13-15. The delegation, which included cabinet colleagues and senior officers, planned to meet with representatives of leading companies to promote Punjab and attract investments. However, the MEA has refused clearance without providing a reason. This decision comes after CM Mann's successful foreign tour to Japan and South Korea in December, where he secured interest from leading companies to invest in Punjab. The tour led to potential investments, including a ₹500-crore expansion by Aichi Steel and a ₹300-400-crore expansion proposal by Toppan Holdings. While the MEA has not commented on the matter, AAP state general secretary Baltej Pannu stated that the central government's decision would not impact Punjab's efforts to attract new investments. The state is expecting close to 250 firms from Japan and South Korea to participate in the summit.
