Taking part in the Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) in Kolkata, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Wednesday highlighted the similarities between his state and West Bengal and urged business leaders to invest in the region “for the betterment of the country”.

Soren, who was personally invited by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to attend the Summit, said: “Our state has massive contributions to the country’s economy. It is only 25 years since Jharkhand was formed, but it has become a significant source of minerals and raw materials. We have a lot to offer in industries related to mining, textiles, and tusser production, where Jharkhand leads the country.”

Noting that half of Jharkhand shares its border with West Bengal, the JMM president said: “The two states have much in common, and sometimes it is difficult to distinguish between the two… I welcome you all to Jharkhand. I hope that today, Bengal and Jharkhand can continue to progress together. The efforts made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to bring industries to Bengal are commendable, and we can certainly work together for the betterment of our country.”

Highlighting the potential for collaboration, he said that both states could benefit from working together, particularly in the context of driving economic growth and attracting investments.

Both Mamata Banerjee’s TMC and Hemant Soren’s JMM are members of the Opposition INDIA bloc alliance.