Australia keen to invest in mining sector in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR: Australia has evinced keen interest to invest around Rs 9,000 crore in the mining sector in Orissa and set up mineral-based units in the state.

"We have proposal for investment of two billion dollars (around Rs 9,000 crore) in the mining sector in Orissa which is endowed with rich natural resources," Australian High Commissioner to India Peter Varghese said here on Sunday.

Varghese, who was on a twoday visit to the state, said at least 85% of mineral requirements in Australia are met through exports from India.

The Australian High Commissioner, who met chief minister Naveen Patnaik and visited an educational institute near here on Saturday, said natural resources including alunimium, gold and coal are available in Orissa. The Australian government would like to set up industries in these sectors in joint venture so that both the countries could reap the benefits.

On his meeting with the chief minister, Varghese said he held discussion on mining scenario and possible projects in Orissa. Officials of Orissa Mining Corporation were also present during the meeting.