Are Six Partner Countries Interested in Collaborating with Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival?
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Synopsis
As the Hornbill Festival kicks off, six partner nations express a strong desire to collaborate with Nagaland in various sectors. This landmark event not only showcases cultural heritage but also paves the way for significant diplomatic and economic ties.
Key Takeaways
- Six countries are collaborating with Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival.
- The festival is a key platform for international partnerships.
- Several sectors are targeted for collaboration, including education and technology.
- Roundtable discussions aim to identify investment opportunities.
- Nagaland's global footprint is set to expand through this event.
Kohima, Dec 1 (NationPress) Six nations -- Austrian, French, Iranian, Malta, Swiss, and the United Kingdom -- designated as partner countries for this year's 10-day Hornbill Festival, have shown a strong desire to work alongside Nagaland across various sectors, as reported by officials on Monday.
The 26th edition of the renowned 'Hornbill Festival' (December 1-10) commenced on Monday at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, located approximately 12 km south of the state capital Kohima.
An official from the Nagaland government stated that the inaugural roundtable and networking meeting with the six partner nations took place at a hotel in Kohima on Sunday evening.
According to the official, Abu Metha, Advisor to the state Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), presided over the meeting and delivered the welcome address.
Nagaland is set to enhance its international presence as it hosts a significant diplomatic and economic engagement during the 10-day Hornbill festival in 2025.
The IDAN organized the inaugural roundtable and networking meeting, bringing together international representatives, government officials, and key industry stakeholders for high-level discussions.
This roundtable follows the recent announcement by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio designating Austria, France, Ireland, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom as partner nations for this year’s Hornbill Festival, highlighting the state’s increasing focus on global collaboration.
Strengthening regional cooperation, Arunachal Pradesh has been chosen as the state partner, reinforcing Northeast India's shared development vision, as noted by the official.
He mentioned that the participation of senior diplomats, including ambassadors from France, Ireland, Switzerland, and the High Commissioner of Malta, marks a significant milestone in Nagaland’s outreach to the global community.
“Their presence indicates a growing interest among foreign missions to explore Nagaland as an emerging hub for economic, cultural, and strategic partnerships in the Northeast. More than just a ceremonial beginning, the roundtable is designed as a strategic platform for policy dialogue, pinpointing tangible partnership opportunities, fostering cross-border cooperation, and strengthening bilateral relations with the participating nations,” the official elaborated.
Stakeholders from sectors like tourism, trade, investment, innovation, technology, and cultural industries are expected to gather to engage with Nagaland's government and local businesses to identify feasible partnership models, joint ventures, and investment pipelines during and after the festival.
Key aspects of the engagements during the Hornbill Festival will include a series of roundtables, B2B meetings, and stakeholder sessions.
This roundtable signifies Nagaland's readiness to collaborate with partner nations on practical investment opportunities and to position the state as a growing player in regional diplomacy, economic collaboration, and cultural exchange.
The Hornbill Festival, already one of India’s most celebrated cultural events, is progressively being expanded to transform cultural exchanges into concrete economic and investment prospects.
By connecting national and international partners with Nagaland's entrepreneurs and institutions, the roundtable aims to serve as a platform where culture intertwines with commerce, heritage interacts with innovation, and local aspirations align with global opportunities.
As the state gears up for the festive period, the inaugural roundtable is anticipated to set the stage for a series of high-level engagements, reinforcing Nagaland's commitment to nurturing meaningful, long-lasting relationships with both international partners and neighboring states, the official concluded.
During the Hornbill carnival, country partners highlighted the significance and potential for collaboration with Nagaland in areas such as education, sports, culture, health, digital services, food processing industries, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the Hornbill Festival as a pivotal moment for Nagaland, showcasing its potential for global engagement. The involvement of multiple countries signifies an opportunity for cultural exchange and economic growth that can benefit the region and elevate its international standing.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are partnering with Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival?
The partner countries for this year's Hornbill Festival include Austria, France, Ireland, Malta, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
What is the purpose of the roundtable meeting?
The roundtable meeting aims to foster dialogue and collaboration between Nagaland and its partner countries across various sectors such as education, culture, and investment.
When does the Hornbill Festival take place?
The Hornbill Festival is being held from December 1 to December 10.
What are the key sectors for collaboration mentioned?
Key sectors for collaboration include tourism, trade, investment, innovation, technology, and cultural industries.
How does this festival contribute to Nagaland's global engagement?
The festival serves as a platform for international partnerships that can lead to economic growth and cultural exchange, enhancing Nagaland's global presence.
