Nagaland: The United Kingdom’s Wales made its mark at Nagaland’s iconic Hornbill Festival this year, emphasizing the importance of cultural and business exchanges. Senior Welsh diplomat Mitchell Theaker, India Head of the Wales government, highlighted the delegation’s productive discussions with Nagaland state officials on key areas, including education, skill development, and trade.
Expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration, Theaker stated, “We were overjoyed when Wales had the offer to be a partner country for the Hornbill Festival.” The 10-day annual festival, held in the first week of December, celebrates Nagaland’s diverse cultural heritage and promotes inter-tribal interaction, drawing international attention.
The partnership between Wales and Nagaland was facilitated by the British Council, the British High Commission, and the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, following a successful visit by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to Wales.
“This is not only a fantastic cultural exchange but also a springboard for building a deeper relationship with Nagaland and the wider region,” Theaker remarked.
The Welsh delegation engaged with Nagaland’s officials and entrepreneurs to explore collaborations in innovative sectors, including technology, entrepreneurship, and start-ups. Theaker noted that Nagaland’s start-up ecosystem shows immense potential, particularly in fields like textiles and education technology, aligning with Wales’s expertise in cyber security, life sciences, and compound semiconductors.
“There are so many opportunities for us to explore together, especially in tech and innovation. Wales is a centre of excellence in these fields, and we’re excited about the potential for collaboration,” he added.
On the implementation of joint initiatives, Theaker emphasized that efforts would begin immediately after the festival. “Our first step is to speak with our partners back in Wales and continue conversations with Nagaland’s leadership at the Chief Minister’s Office to identify areas where we can offer expertise and support,” he said.
Alison Barrett MBE, Division Director of the British Council, also underscored the shared cultural and geographical features of Wales and Nagaland. “Wales and Nagaland have much in common, from their mountainous landscapes to their rich cultural heritage,” she said.
Barrett noted that the collaboration has been enriched by musical traditions, with Welsh artists participating in the festival through the British Council’s support. “The British Council has been proud to foster this cultural exchange, which celebrates the deep artistic and cultural connections between the two regions,” she concluded.
The partnership with Wales highlights the growing international interest in Nagaland’s vibrant culture and economic potential, reinforcing the Hornbill Festival’s role as a global platform for fostering relationships.
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