Former UK PM Tony Blair on Wednesday met Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik and discussed the issue of economic development and growth of the East Indian state.

Patnaik described his meeting with Blair as 'pleasurable'.

Following the meeting, the Odisha CM tweeted: "It is a pleasure meeting former UK Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair. Had a meaningful discussion on economic development and growth of #Odisha & future perspectives. Thank Mr. Blair for extending policy support, assistance in developing a comprehensive economic strategy for #Odisha. "

Interestingly, on July 21, the government of Odisha inked an MoU with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI).

Patnaik tweeted: "Appreciate the preliminary suggestions of Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) focusing on inclusive benefits for our citizens. Thanked him for his praise for Odisha’s success in different sectors and appreciation for #5T initiative bringing transformation in governance."

Established in 2016, the Tony Blair Institute (TBI), commonly known by its trade name the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

It is a non-profit organisation set up by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair to provide advice to governments and "to help political leaders build open, inclusive and prosperous societies in an increasingly interconnected world".