Shimla, Nov 6 (IANS): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Friday sought US investments in tourism, horticulture and drug manufacturing, besides investment in electrical and power equipment.

Interacting with visiting US Ambassador Kenneth I. Juster here, he said the state has been bestowed with immense natural beauty, offering ample opportunities to the entrepreneurs to invest.

The topography of the state, which is similar to Colorado and California, has immense opportunity in mutual cooperation in tourism.

Thakur said the US companies can invest in ski resort, ski lifts, development of ski slopes in the Chanshal Valley of Shimla district, development of international water sports activities in the Pong Dam reservoir in Kangra district and development of theme park in Jhatingari and ropeway up to Shikari temple in Mandi district.

Thakur said India-US bilateral relations have developed into a global strategic partnership based on shared democratic values and increasing convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and global issues.

He said the state also has immense potential in horticulture and allied sectors. He said there is also vast scope of investment in other sectors such as establishing cold chains and packaging and processing units.

The Chief Minister said the state has emerged a strong contender for setting up a bulk drug and medical device park in the state.

Several American companies have been engaged in production of formulation drugs. He urged the US Ambassador to motivate US companies to invest in the state, an official statement said.

The US companies can also play major role by investing in electrical and power equipment.

The Ambassador said that India and the US shared strong cultural and trade relations for decades together. He said he would help showcasing the huge potential available in Himachal Pradesh for investment.