The Government of Nagaland hosted a special program with the theme “Nagaland’s Global Footprints: Cultural Diplomacy & International Engagements” at the State Banquet Hall, Kohima, on 1st August 2025, to celebrate the state’s growing international presence through cultural initiatives and diplomatic engagements.
Speaking at the event as the Special Guest, Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, recounted personal experiences from his official visits to Japan and Russia. He expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, and the Indian Embassy in Russia and Japan for their invitation and hospitality. Nagaland was one of the six Indian states and the only state from the North East to be invited. Dr Rio stated that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation and human resource development was signed between Nagaland and Kochi prefecture (Japan), which in itself was a historic feat. He also spoke about the various collaborations between Japan and Nagaland, such as the JICA project, the proposed establishment of a 400-bed hospital at the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, and training programs for doctors and nurses with placements in Japan. Further collaborations are being planned in education, language training, sports and capacity building and with organisations such as the Sasakawa Peace Foundation for political and cultural cooperation, he said.
Dr. Rio also informed that Nagaland’s participation at the closing ceremony of Bharat Utsav, which was held in Russia, gained international recognition through the outstanding cultural performances by Naga artists and performers, and it was well received by the audiences in Russia. He said that the Russia Today studio will also be inaugurated in Delhi this year, showcasing the close relationship between India and Russia. The Chief Minister also acknowledged the rich tradition and culture of both countries and also appreciated the cleanliness, landscaping and impressive historical sites and technological advancements in their public infrastructure. He highlighted the ongoing efforts by the state government to preserve and promote Naga culture, traditions and handicrafts through such cultural engagements and emphasised the importance of unity and international recognition. He ended his address by encouraging all Nagas to lend their continued efforts to develop Nagaland and promote its rich cultural heritage across the globe.
During the programme, Dr. Rio officially launched TREEKAM, an international music collaboration album cover, coordinated by producer Arpito Gope. Citations were also presented by the Chief Minister to all the artists who participated in the Bharat Utsav- Festival of India held in Russia.
Happy to share Nagaland’s growing global presence at the prog. “Nagaland’s Global Footprints: Cultural Diplomacy & International Engagements”. From MoU signings to showcasing our State at the World Expo Osaka & Bharat Utsav 2025, Moscow, Nagaland made its mark on the world stage. pic.twitter.com/bCZTX5mThw
— Neiphiu Rio (@Neiphiu_Rio) August 1, 2025
A PowerPoint presentation was delivered by the Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of IDAN, Abu Metha, showcasing the key outcomes of the visit. Some of the major achievements included institutional collaborations aimed at human resource development and economic growth, as well as the promotion of ‘Brand Nagaland’ as a destination for investment, tourism, and culture, Nagaland’s contribution in strengthening strategic relations between India, Japan, and Russia and in creating opportunities for the Nagaland Youth to contribute towards Nation building process at global and international platforms. He ended his presentation by thanking the Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio, for his leadership, guidance, and foresight in taking Nagaland to the international community. Earlier in the program, Secretary, Tourism Department, Nchumbemo Lotha gave a short speech on behalf of the department. The event witnessed musical performances by the Catholic Youth Association of Christ the King Church, Vilhou Kezo, Kedo and Vetho, and by Kekhrie Ringa and Friends.
The event concluded with a note of appreciation from the Chairman of TaFMA, Theja Meru. Cabinet ministers, advisors, MLAs, dignitaries from various departments, and other invitees attended the event.
