Dr Neiphiu Rio and others after distribution of citations to Naga cultural troupe of Bharat Utsav 2025 Moscow at a function held in Kohima on August 1. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 1
Nagaland today celebrated the positive outcome of the recent official tour of the State Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio to Japan and Russia in July 2025.
Addressing a special programme organised for the same, entitled “Nagaland’s Global Footprints: Cultural Diplomacy and International Engagements” at State Banquet Hall, Kohima, Dr Rio, stressed on the need to engage with a global platform for growth and sustainable livelihood.
He expressed deep gratitude to both countries -Japan and Russia for their goodwill gesture and hospitality to the delegation during their visit, resulting a step forward in building international partnerships.
He also thanked the Government of India for enabling Nagaland delegation to have undertaken such global outreach programme.
During a visit to Japan, Dr Rio reaffirmed the deep-rooted historical and cultural bonds between India and Japan, describing them as “civilizational connections founded on shared democratic values, religious harmony, and a commitment to peace and humanity.”
Touching on Kochi MoU, Dr Rio said that Nagaland will look forward for more collaboration.
Dr Rio said that the delegation highlighted the significance of Hornbill Festival, which has gained international recognition.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister stressed on the need to protect and promote Naga culture and customary laws as Nagaland was granted special protection under Article 371A of the Indian Constitution. This provision is aimed at safeguarding the unique cultural identity and traditions of the Naga people.
Later, Dr Rio handed over citation to Naga cultural troupe who were part of Bharat Utsav 2025 in Moscow and praised them for their outstanding performance.
He also launched TREEKAM, an international music collaboration album cover, produced by Arpito Gope.
Deputy Chief Ministers TR Zeliang and Y Patton and several other dignitaries also present at the programme.
Key outcomes of tour
In PowerPoint presentation, Abu Metha, chairman, Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) highlighted Kochi MoU, which was signed for promotion and collaboration in industrial, economic and workforce development, between the Government of Nagaland and Kochi Prefecture.
The MoU focused on workforce exchange & collaboration, promote mutual understanding through cultural exchange initiatives and expand areas of cooperation through mutually age-upon projects.
Further, Metha highlighted key outcome during the tour as; institutional collaborations in human resource development and economic development, promotion of Nagaland as an investment, tourism and cultural destination, contribution of Nagaland in strengthening the special and strategic relationship between India, Japan and Russia, cultural diplomacy through powerful performances and exchanges, promotion of brand Nagaland and Naga soft power and creating opportunities for Naga youth to contribute towards the nation building process at global and international platforms.
Nagaland Tourism Secretary Nchumbemo Lotha and Imlisen Pongen shared a journey experience.
The event featured performances such as Vivaldi Winter by Vilhou Kezo, a choir by Catholic Youth Association of Christ The King Church, Kohima village, A Million Dreams by Kedo & Vetho and Ara Kezivi by Kekhrie Ringa & friends.
Sentiwapang Aier, Additional Secretary chaired the programme while vote of thanks was proposed by Theja Meru, chairman, Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA).
