Expressing optimism about full cooperation from the Centre, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday said improvement of basic infrastructure and law and order would be among his top priorities to create a conducive atmosphere for attracting investment.

Nitish Kumar sworn in as Bihar CM

"I am confident about the Centre extending full cooperation to bring the state back on the path of development". Kumar told his maiden press conference after assuming office.

Kumar said that during his meeting with the Prime Minister in New Delhi before flying to Patna to form the National Democratic Alliance government, Manmohan Singh [Images] assured that the Centre would provide adequate assistance for ensuring growth of the state. "And I am reasonably sure that he will keep his word".

Images: Nitish takes over Laluland

Asked about the steps he would take to attract foreign investment, Kumar said, "What to talk about foreign investment, even internal investment at this stage would not be forthcoming unless an atmosphere conducive to it is created.

"We have to improve law and order and work for development of basic infrastructure in order to attract such investment," he said.

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