Addressing a seminar on the arrival of a high-level Canadian delegation, Akhilesh said Uttar Pradesh was important for trade activities in the country as it was one of the biggest state economies in India.
Observing that one-sixth population of the country lived in UP, he said Canada's willingness to increase its investment in the country should benefit the state and assured the delegation of support and facilities to investors.
The CM said that Samajwadi Party government had created employment opportunities and improved arrangements for training youths.
A 26-member delegation led by senator Asha Seth and president of Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce Nawal Bajaj is on a tour to the state.
On the occasion, Seth read out a message from Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and handed over a copy to Akhilesh.
Referring to the senator's last visit to the state in 2012, Akhilesh said UP would be benefited from strengthening of relations between India and Canada.