US consul general meets Sonowal; discusses issues of mutual

Guwahati, Oct. 26 (PTI): US Consul General Patti Hoffman and Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday discussed a wide spectrum of issues concerning mutual interests of America and Assam.

The duo discussed about mutual interests in the sectors like tourism, education, connectivity and bio-diversity.

Hailing Assams prolific tea industry, immense tourism potential and bio-diversity, the US Consul General who called on Sonowal here, said that there are immense investment possibilities in these sectors.

Hoffman stated that she would impress upon the US investors to invest in the sectors like tourism and hospitality industry, organic farming, Information Technology etc. where the scope of mutual reciprocity can be used to harness mutual benefits.

The US consul general hailed the state government role in improving the security scenario in the state and assured to increase mutual reciprocity programme with Assam.

Chief Minister Sonowal apprised Hoffman about the State government ventures in strengthening connectivity and the steps taken by the government to make the state an ideal hub of investment.

Referring to the Act East policy pursued by the Union government, Sonowal informed Hoffman that his government has taken series of initiatives to transform Guwahati into a Gateway to ASEAN and BBN countries.

Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjay Lohiya, Principal Secretary to Health and Family Welfare Samir Sinha, Commissioner and Secretary to Transport Ashutosh Agnihotri were present in the interactive meeting.