BRAMPTON, May 9 – Brampton City Council unanimously passed a motion moved by Regional Councillor Gurpreet Singh Dhillon that will request newly elected Chief Minister of Punjab, India, Bhagwant Mann to explore strengthening his states economic ties with the Brampton.
The motion outlined that a letter be sent to CM Mann congratulating him on his recent victory, inviting his government to engage with the City in discussing trade and investment options, and that an official Brampton Economic Development package be included that highlights the city’s key sectors in advanced manufacturing, food & beverage, health & life sciences, innovation & technology, and its growing cybersecurity ecosystem. The motion also requests that Sheridan College, Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), and Algoma University be included as potential partners.
Punjab’s economy is based on manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, dairy, tourism, film, and financial services. It is currently the second-slowest growing state, and 16th largest in India with a GDP of US $71 billion. In 1981, Punjab had the largest GDP out of all states in India.
“Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has been given a mandate by his voters to create jobs and boost Punjab’s economy,” stated Councillor Dhillon. “Through partnerships with our Council, educational institutions, and local businesses, and with Brampton having one of the largest Punjabi populations outside of India, this initiative has the potential to provide numerous opportunities to solidify and strengthen our already strong economic, social and cultural bonds.”