Could a Partnership Between Odisha and Da Nang Be on the Horizon?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Odisha's Governor has proposed a meaningful partnership with Da Nang during his visit to Vietnam, aiming to strengthen cultural and economic ties. This collaboration could enhance bilateral relations rooted in shared Buddhist heritage and mutual growth opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Governor Kambhampati proposed exploring ties between Odisha and Da Nang.
- The partnership aims to enhance cultural and economic cooperation.
- Buddhism serves as a historical link between India and Vietnam.
- Direct flights are improving people-to-people contact.
- Da Nang is positioning itself as a center for technology and tourism.
Bhubaneswar, June 3 (NationPress) Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, who headed a delegation to Vietnam to retrieve the sacred relics of Lord Buddha, proposed the idea of establishing province-level partnerships between Odisha and the city of Da Nang in Vietnam, as stated in an official announcement made on Tuesday.
This proposal was discussed during his meeting with H.E. Le Trung Chinh, Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee. The Governor emphasized that Odisha is a state rich in history, boasts strong cultural traditions, and is experiencing rapid economic growth.
“We also have numerous significant Buddhist sites. If Da Nang is interested, we can work towards forming ties between our two regions,” he remarked.
Kambhampati commended Da Nang for being a beautiful and historic city that has made remarkable progress.
“Da Nang aspires to become a major port, a hub for high technology, finance, and tourism,” the Governor stated.
He pointed out that Da Nang’s position as a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam is crucial for fostering economic and trade cooperation between India and Vietnam.
The Governor expressed gratitude to the Vietnamese government and the residents of Da Nang for their warm welcome and the excellent arrangements made for the sacred relics of Lord Buddha, which garnered an overwhelming response from the local community.
“These relics are honored with the highest protocol by the Government of India, and I personally traveled to escort them back,” he noted.
Governor Kambhampati highlighted that Buddhism has been a significant link between India and Vietnam for nearly 1,800 years. He mentioned that India treasures its Buddhist heritage and is dedicated to preserving and promoting Buddhist sites.
He also addressed the increasing partnership between India and Vietnam, referencing the visit of the Vietnamese Prime Minister to India last year and a meeting between the Indian Prime Minister and Vietnam’s President and Party General Secretary To Lam in New York in 2024, which has bolstered bilateral ties.
The Governor remarked that cooperation between the two nations is broadening in sectors such as trade, defense, tourism, health, digital economy, education, and sustainable development.
He applauded Da Nang’s efforts in collaborating with the Indian Embassy to promote yoga, cultural exchange, and academic ties, also noting that more direct flights between the two countries have enhanced people-to-people interactions.
Kambhampati shared his experience of visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site at My Son in central Vietnam. He praised the work of the Indian archaeological team restoring ancient temples and deemed the project a strong symbol of the deep historical and cultural ties between India and Vietnam.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the proposed partnership between Odisha and Da Nang represents a significant opportunity for cultural exchange and economic collaboration. By fostering ties rooted in shared heritage, both regions stand to benefit from mutual growth and understanding, aligning with India's broader foreign policy goals.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Governor Kambhampati's visit to Vietnam?
The purpose of Governor Kambhampati's visit to Vietnam was to bring back the sacred relics of Lord Buddha and to propose establishing ties between Odisha and Da Nang.
Why is the partnership between Odisha and Da Nang significant?
The partnership is significant as it seeks to strengthen cultural and economic ties, leveraging the shared Buddhist heritage and promoting mutual growth opportunities.
What sectors could benefit from this proposed partnership?
Sectors such as trade, tourism, health, education, and cultural exchange could greatly benefit from the proposed partnership.
How long has Buddhism linked India and Vietnam?
Buddhism has been a strong link between India and Vietnam for nearly 1,800 years.
What was praised about Da Nang during the meeting?
Governor Kambhampati praised Da Nang for its beauty, historical significance, and rapid progress in becoming a major port and technology hub.
