New Delhi: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met here today and discussed over various aspects of the state's development.

Economic & industrial development and employment opportunities in Odisha were the prime topics in the meeting, which lasted for around 45 minutes commencing from 6 pm.

"I had a cordial meeting with Dharmendra Pradhan on how we can give further employment and ensure development & welfare by mutual programmes of the Centre and the State for the benefit of the people of Odisha. I am hopeful that a lot of good things will come out of the meeting," the CM said after the meeting.

"We discussed ways to work together to usher in economic & industrial development and generate employment opportunities to bring all round prosperity for the people of Odisha. Also discussed enhancing Odisha’s footprints further in the steel sector. Steel will have a large influence in rejuvenating the economy in Odisha. The centre is committed to develop Odisha as a global hub of ancillary industry in the steel sector," Pradhan said.

"The Chief Minister has assured co-operation in this regard. I am sure the Odisha Government will support Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives and work in collaboration for the holistic development of Odisha," he added.

On the occasion, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) donated Rs 3 crore to Odisha Chief Minister's Relief Fund for helping cyclone FANI-affected people.