In a significant move to enhance cultural exchange, the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, visited Wales this week to formalize a partnership for the renowned Hornbill Festival, one of India’s most vibrant cultural celebrations. This partnership coincides with the conclusion of the “Wales in India 2024” initiative, a year-long series of events aimed at strengthening ties between Wales and India, according to a DIPR report.
The partnership agreement was signed during a meeting at the British Council offices in Cardiff, where Chief Minister Rio was joined by representatives from the Welsh Government, the British Council, and Wales Arts International. Among the officials present was Deputy First Minister of Wales and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS.
During his visit, Chief Minister Rio also engaged in discussions with the newly-appointed Minister for Culture, Skills, and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS. Expressing gratitude for the collaboration, Rio highlighted the importance of this partnership in fostering connections between the two countries. He emphasized, “We have confidence that this partnership will strengthen ties between our two countries and increase people-to-people contact and open opportunities for young people.” He further remarked on Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage, expressing eagerness to welcome Wales to the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival.
The Chief Minister’s delegation included prominent officials such as Advisor Industries & Commerce Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha, Commissioner & Secretary to the Chief Minister Kesonyu Yhome, and Press Relations Officer Rusemtong Longkumer. The group toured the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and the School of Sport and Health Sciences at Cardiff Metropolitan University, where they interacted with students and discussed potential academic collaborations.
Rio shared his vision for the future, stating, “We will be exploring avenues for students from Nagaland to embark on courses at these impressive universities, as well as for musicians and artists to perform in Wales.”
Alison Barrett MBE, Director India at the British Council, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted that the Hornbill Festival is part of the Wales in India 2024 celebration of Two Nations of Culture and Innovation. We have had a long association with the festival and are looking forward to bringing artists and speakers from Wales for the festival to collaborate, exchange ideas and inspiration, and showcase their work to audiences in Nagaland as one of India’s most spectacular festivals celebrates its 25th anniversary.”
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