Nagaland: Roundtables reinforce State’s regional, global ties

Nagaland strengthened regional and international ties through two high-level roundtables held on December 10 with Arunachal Pradesh and December 11 with Malta, during the recently concluded Hornbill Festival 2025 at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama.
On December 10, the governments of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh held a high-level Roundtable at Kisama, to strengthen cooperation in tourism, agriculture, enterprise, youth and sports, music, arts, and cultural exchange.
Ministers, advisors, and senior officials from both states joined the deliberations. A key highlight was the formal exchange of a Partnership Agreement, hailed by Abu Metha, advisor to the Chief Minister and IDAN chairman, as “a milestone” that will unlock new avenues for shared growth.
At the Roundtable, advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan underscored collaboration in smart farming, watershed development, crop research, and institutional capacity building, stressing reciprocal knowledge-sharing.
Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona highlighted the Northeast’s rich culture and talent but noted its under-recognition. He called for stronger regional cooperation and targeted policies to boost visibility, cultural industries, and youth-centric opportunities.
The Arunachal Pradesh Pavilion at Kisama attracted strong visitor interest, showcasing GI handicrafts, textiles, wellness goods, beverages, and artisanal items, highlighting demand for indigenous products.
On December 11, Nagaland hosted the Malta Country Partner Roundtable, chaired by Abu Metha, advisor to Chief Minister and chairman of IDAN. The meeting explored avenues for collaboration in music, arts, education, enterprise, creative industries, and youth engagement. Welcoming the Maltese delegation, Metha highlighted Nagaland’s cultural vibrancy, global music presence, and its historical significance in the Battle of Kohima.
Malta’s High Commissioner to India, Reuben Gauci, drew parallels between Malta’s colonial past and Naga history, noting shared experiences that foster cultural understanding. He pointed to Malta’s academic heritage, with the University of Malta dating back to the 18th century, and welcomed partnerships with Nagaland University. Professor Norbert praised the originality of Naga writers and expressed readiness to facilitate exchanges, residencies, and collaborations. The meeting also identified opportunities in hospitality employment, academic exchange, and emerging creative sectors.
Two back-to-back engagements reaffirm Nagaland’s resolve to position itself as a hub for regional partnership, international collaboration, economic growth, and cultural exchange.