AP Eyes UK Partnership For Sustainable Urban Growth
The two sides explored cooperation in power generation and transmission, sustainable urban transport systems, green mobility initiatives, riverfront development and sports infrastructure
VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh is in discussions with the United Kingdom to explore collaboration in energy, green mobility and sustainable infrastructure as also to attract global investments and advanced technologies into the state.
A high-level meeting held in Amaravati on Thursday brought together senior state government officials and a visiting UK delegation led by Chaz Walia, partnerships director, department of business and trade (UK) and Gareth Wynn Owen, deputy high commissioner at the British deputy high commission, Hyderabad, along with two sector specialists.
The discussions were chaired by principal secretary to the municipal administration and urban development department, Suresh Kumar. Senior officials, including CRDA commissioner, managing director of AGICL, chairman of APADCL and additional commissioners of CRDA, also participated.
The two sides explored cooperation in power generation and transmission, sustainable urban transport systems, green mobility initiatives, riverfront development and sports infrastructure. Emerging urban solutions, particularly district cooling systems aimed at improving energy efficiency in cities, also figured prominently in the deliberations.
A focus of the talks was on financing mechanisms for large-scale infrastructure projects. The UK delegation explained different funding models, including exchange finance frameworks, and highlighted the growing importance of Public-Private Partnership models in mobilising private investments for sustainable development projects.
The state reiterated its commitment to building a strong pipeline of sustainable and investment-ready projects, positioning AP as an attractive destination for international partners and investors.
Tourism promotion and knowledge-sharing partnerships were also discussed, with both sides agreeing to strengthen institutional collaboration and facilitate exchange of expertise across sectors.
Principal secretary Suresh Kumar stated that AP is keen on forging outcome-oriented international partnerships that can accelerate sustainable urban growth, improve infrastructure quality and enhance public service delivery.
Officials said a follow-up meeting is expected shortly to take forward specific proposals and areas of cooperation identified during the interaction.
