International Diplomacy Flourishes at Nagaland's Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland has become a significant platform for international diplomacy, with representatives from various countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthen ties with India. This year's festival, coinciding with Nagaland's 63rd Statehood Day, attracted over 22,000 attendees on its opening day. Ambassadors from France, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, and the UK expressed their interest in collaborating with Nagaland in areas such as agriculture, technology, and tourism. The festival not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland but also serves as a vital opportunity for cultural exchange and sustainable tourism development. With numerous events planned over ten days, the festival promises to showcase the vibrant traditions and diversity of the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 2, 2025, 15:05 IST

Strengthening Global Ties at the Hornbill Festival

Kohima, Dec 2: During the ongoing Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, diplomats and senior officials from various nations have reiterated their dedication to enhancing relations with India, as reported by officials.

The involvement of partner countries at this year's 26th festival, which includes France, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, and the United Kingdom, highlights the event's increasing international significance and Nagaland's growing cultural and economic interactions.

Launched on December 1 at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, the festival coincided with Nagaland's 63rd Statehood Day and attracted a remarkable attendance of 22,508 on its first day, according to officials.

French Ambassador Thierry Mathou, attending the festival for the first time, expressed France's interest in fostering deeper collaboration with Nagaland in sectors such as agriculture, technology, education, and tourism.

(AT Photo)

Irish Ambassador Kevin Kelly remarked that the Hornbill Festival symbolizes identity and resilience, emphasizing the historical connections between Ireland and India.

He mentioned that an Irish delegation, which includes historian and former footballer Terry Phelan, is set to investigate potential sports partnerships.

Swiss Ambassador Maya Tissafi referred to Hornbill as one of Asia's most dynamic cultural celebrations, expressing Switzerland's eagerness to engage in skill development, cultural exchanges, sustainable tourism, and innovation based on indigenous knowledge.

Austrian Trade Commissioner Hans-Jorg Hortnagl indicated Austria's interest in promoting sustainable tourism, green technologies, and skill enhancement in the region.

British Council Director Debanjan Chakrabarty, representing the UK, highlighted the long-standing relationship between the UK and Hornbill, referencing past collaborations and ongoing scholarship opportunities for Naga students.

He noted that the UK's involvement this year aligns with new agreements between India and the UK concerning trade, education, and cultural cooperation.

The inaugural ceremony on Monday commenced with an invocation by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, followed by traditional blessings from 87-year-old Tomwang of Longwa village in Mon district.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed pride in hosting Austria, Malta, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland as partner nations for Hornbill 2025, while also welcoming Arunachal Pradesh as the partner state for this edition.

Rio encouraged visitors to explore beyond Kisama and experience the warmth, landscapes, and villages of Nagaland, while acknowledging existing infrastructure challenges and committing to ongoing improvements.

Nagaland Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who also serves as Governor of Manipur, officially opened the festival, calling it the 'Festival of Festivals' and a reflection of the state's rich cultural heritage.

He emphasized that the festival has transformed into a platform for tourism, entrepreneurship, and meaningful cultural exchange, urging stakeholders to focus on sustainable tourism given Nagaland's ecological sensitivity.

Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the people of Nagaland, the 17 tribes and sub-tribes, partner nations, government agencies, performers, security forces, media, and visitors.

The ten-day festival will showcase hundreds of events across various districts, highlighting the cultural richness, diversity, and living traditions of Nagaland.