Lucknow, Jan 27 (IANS): Electronics major Samsung Tuesday said it has invested Rs.517 crore for the expansion of its Noida plant under the UP Mega Policy.

The expanded facility of Samsung India was inaugurated by UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav here Tuesday.

Samsung India Electronics has completed 20 years in India and now has three research labs and two manufacturing plants in the country with a total of 45,000 employees.

“Uttar Pradesh is one of the most important states for Samsung and the expansion of the Noida Mobile unit will further strengthen our presence in the country and enhance our manufacturing operations. The Noida factory is a star performer and rates as one of the best facilities across the globe,” Hyun Chil Hong, president & chief executive officer, Samsung India Electronics, said.

“Currently over 11,000 Samsung employees are working in UP and we are looking forward to creating more job opportunities in the state,” he added.

The new phone "Samsung Z1" will also be manufactured at the Noida facility with most of the phone’s software being developed at the Noida Research Centre.

“Korea shares very close ties with the people of Uttar Pradesh. A host of Korean companies operate out of UP and have manufacturing facilities in the state. I will like to congratulate Samsung India Electronics for their investments in the Uttar Pradesh and also for being the largest private tax player in the state,” said Joon-gyu Lee, South Korean ambassador to India.