By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, January 22, 2016 : Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik sought on Friday closer ties with USA in investment, climate change and disaster management.

In a tweet, the chief minister said, “Discussed US-Odisha closer ties in investment, climate change and disaster management with @USAmbIndia Shri Richard Verma.”

Patnaik held a discussion with Verma and urged him to expand the cooperation of the US in developing information technology and the electronics industry in Odisha.

Highlighting the initiatives taken by his government on ease of doing business in the state, the chief minister stressed on increasing cooperation between Odisha and the US in the education and tourism sector.

“Discussed how the US and Odisha can collaborate on many areas including in investments, climate change and disaster management,” tweeted Verma.

Earlier on Friday, Verma interacted with some business leaders of the state and gained insights into the improving business climate in the state.

The US diplomat also met Odisha Governor S.C. Jamir and discussed ties between Odisha and the US.