US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti described his visit to Nagaland as remarkable and disclosed that he had fallen in love with the state and its people. Interacting with media persons at Hotel Vivor on Saturday night, Garcetti said the Hornbill Festival was the best cultural festival he had ever been to.
During his visit, he observed the World AIDS Day with the communities in Kohima, graced the inaugural ceremony of the Hornbill Festival, met leaders of the Baptist church, visited Khonoma village and attended the Bloom Bazaar.
Garcetti remarked that his visit had made him realise the need for the US to collaborate with Nagaland in terms of providing potential economic link, physical and human infrastructure in the agriculture, health, tourism and business sectors.
He disclosed that chief minister Neiphiu Rio had expressed a desire of the state government for collaboration in hydropower and technology.
After his return to the United States, Garcetti said he desired to strengthen ties with the Nagas living in America. He assured that efforts would be made to reach out to them and use their assistance to work with the people of Nagaland.
Asked why it took a festival like the Hornbill for foreign dignitaries to visit Nagaland, he replied that the festival was the gateway to Nagaland and understand the rich cultural of its people.
He further stated that in the global fight to defeat AIDS, the US would contemplate to train health professionals and trainers with required tools to eliminate the disease. As to why the US wanted to help Nagaland, Garcetti claimed the focus of America was friendship, peace, prosperity, and planet. He said the US had financing mechanisms to help various states in the country if the Indian government allowed it to do so.
Meanwhile, Garcetti, took to social media to share his experience after embarking on an early morning hike. He expressed his admiration for the region’s stunning landscapes, particularly highlighting the breathtaking view from the peak he successfully conquered.