Vijayawada: The Investopia Global-AP Conference, jointly organized by Invest India and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), kicked off in Vijayawada on Wednesday. The event aims to boost investment opportunities in Andhra Pradesh and strengthen economic ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N.Chandrababu Naidu attended the conference as the chief guest. The event saw participation from around 200 representatives of various UAE-based organizations and industries. Among the notable attendees were UAE Minister of Economy H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, LuLu Group Chairman and Managing Director Yusuff Ali M.A., and Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings.

On social media platform X, CM Naidu shared, "Had the pleasure of meeting H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Hon’ble Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu International, and Mr. Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings. We had an engaging discussion on potential investment and development opportunities in Andhra Pradesh."

Four Key Areas of Focus
1. Strengthening India-UAE Economic Ties
The first session, themed ‘State as a Gateway for Investments’, highlighted Andhra Pradesh's potential as a strategic hub for foreign investment. Officials from the state presented policies, infrastructure projects, and investment incentives to UAE delegates.

2. UAE–AP Partnership for Growth
A panel discussion explored collaborative strategies for long-term development. UAE investors shared their plans to expand operations and discussed effective models for bilateral growth in priority sectors.

3. Indo-UAE Food Corridor
Another key session focused on agriculture, agritech, food processing, and logistics. Talks centered on strengthening the food supply chain, creating food parks, and facilitating exports from farm to port.

4. Technology and Smart Governance
The final session addressed the importance of AI, data centres, and digital governance. Discussions revolved around how emerging technologies can enhance public services and drive tech-based investment in the state.

Meanwhile, UAE-based company Croma Athor International expressed its interest in investing in Andhra Pradesh’s green energy sector. In a letter to CM Naidu, the company proposed setting up compressed biogas and solar cell manufacturing units in areas with high fodder availability and employment needs.

The conference marks a significant step in forging deeper India-UAE economic cooperation, with Andhra Pradesh positioning itself as a promising destination for global investment.