UK keen to be part of Bihar's growth process

NEW DELHI: Expressing interest in the growth story of Bihar, the United Kingdom has shown eagerness to explore opportunities for British companies to invest in the eastern state.

The keenness to invest in the state was expressed by UK Finance Minister George Osborne who called on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar here late last evening.

Osborne was accompanied by James Bevan, British High Commissioner to India, Jo Johnson, MP, and Paul Rennie, Political Head, British High Commission, a statement from Bihar government said today.

"UK Finance Minister wanted to explore the investment opportunities available to British companies for participation in the growth story of the state," the statement quoted Osborne as saying. The visiting England minister expressed deep interest in the growth story of Bihar.

The Chief Minister informed them that huge investment opportunities are available particularly in power, provision of professional education (engineering, management, law, skill development) and agro-based industries sectors.

Kumar said his government had given highest priority to good governance which included enforcement of "rule of law", transparency in functioning of the government, investment in infrastructure, strengthening delivery of public services like health and education.

The Bihar CM invited the British Finance Minister to the state. Osborne assured that he would like to know more about Bihar and would come to the state during his next visit to India, the statement added.