Aliawati reflects on diplomatic mission

Aliawati Longkumer, a native of Yaongyimsen village in Mokokchung district, was recently appointed as India’s next Ambassador to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
In an exclusive interview with Nagaland Post, Longkumer shares his thoughts on this significant diplomatic assignment, India’s engagement with DPRK, and his message to the youth of Nagaland and the Northeast. Aliawati joined the Central Government service on August 5, 1994, in the Indian Foreign Service (Branch B). Since then, he has served in various diplomatic capacities across several Indian Missions abroad, bringing with him a wealth of experience in international diplomacy and bilateral relations.
NP: How do you feel about your new assignment as Ambassador to the DPRK given the sensitive geopolitical dynamics of the Korean Peninsula?
Aliawati: As India’s Ambassador designate to the DPRK, I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with this important responsibility. The Korean peninsula holds significant geopolitical importance and I approach this assignment with humility, a sense of purpose, and a commitment to advancing India’s foreign policy objectives through dialogue, understanding and peaceful engagement.
NP: What are your immediate priorities as you take up this challenging diplomatic role?
Aliawati: My immediate priorities include deepening bilateral ties in areas where cooperation is possible, ensuring the well-being and safety of Indian citizens in the region, and maintaining open channels of communications.
NP: How do you plan to navigate diplomatic engagements with a country that has limited formal interactions with the rest of the world?
Aliawati: Diplomacy, at its core, is about building bridges-even where few currently exist. I believe consistent, respectful, and principle-based engagement is the way forward. India’s long standing policy of non-interference, coupled with our emphasis on dialogue and peaceful coexistence, provides a strong foundation to engage with the DPRK in a constructive manner.
NP: What scope do you see for dialogue between India and DPRK on regional security issues?
Aliawati: While India is not directly involved in the security architecture of the region, we are keen observers and responsible stakeholders in broader regional security. Any opportunity for dialogue that contributes to de-escalation and long term peace is something we would encourage and, where appropriate, engage with diplomatically.
NP: How does India balance its diplomatic ties with both Koreas amid tensions on the peninsula?
Aliawati: India maintains independent, balanced, and principled relations with both the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea. We believe in fostering mutual respect, non-intervention, and cooperation for development. India’s commitment to peace and dialogue allows us to maintain cordial ties with both nations, even amid regional tensions.
NP: What message would you like to share with the people of Nagaland and the Northeast as you take up this new responsibility?
Aliawait: It is God’s blessing for me to be appointed as India’s Ambassador designate to the DPRK. I hope my journey inspires young people back home to dream big with integrity. No matter how distant the paths may seem, with faith in God, and His guidance, bundled with hard work, courage and faith in oneself, everything is possible.
Aliawati joined the central service on August 5, 1994, Indian Foreign Service (Branch B) and posted to several diplomatic missions.