Kohima, February 28: Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), held a meeting with senior officials of the British Council to discuss ongoing collaborations and explore new opportunities for partnership between Nagaland and the United Kingdom in the fields of arts, culture, education, and international engagement.
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| Abu Metha meets British Council representatives during discussions on strengthening UK–India collaboration and partnership for the Hornbill Festival. (Image: X@abumetha) |
The meeting was held with Ms. Hema Singh Rance, Director Arts, British Council India, and Dr. Debanjan Chakrabarti, Director for East and Northeast India. The interaction focused on strengthening existing partnerships while identifying new areas of cooperation that could contribute to cultural exchange, capacity building, and broader people-to-people connections between Nagaland and the UK.
During the discussions, Abu Metha expressed appreciation for the British Council’s sustained engagement with Nagaland over the years. He acknowledged the institution’s contribution to promoting cultural diplomacy, educational opportunities, creative exchanges, and international collaborations that have helped connect Nagaland with global networks.
A major point of discussion was the British Council’s role as the International Institutional Partner of the Hornbill Festival, Nagaland’s flagship cultural event that attracts visitors, performers, artists, and delegates from across India and around the world. Metha noted that the partnership has significantly contributed to enhancing the international profile of the festival and has served as an effective platform for fostering cultural understanding and cooperation.
He observed that the collaboration has strengthened India–UK relations at the grassroots level, encouraging greater interaction between artists, cultural practitioners, entrepreneurs, students, and institutions from both countries. According to Metha, such partnerships not only showcase Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage but also create opportunities for local talent to engage with international audiences and professional networks.
The meeting also explored possibilities for expanding cooperation in emerging areas linked to the evolving relationship between India and the United Kingdom. Discussions touched upon opportunities that may arise from the proposed India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to deepen economic, cultural, and educational exchanges between the two nations.
Both sides reportedly expressed optimism about the potential for enhanced collaboration in sectors such as creative industries, cultural tourism, youth engagement, skills development, education, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives. There was also interest in exploring programmes that could provide greater exposure and opportunities for young people from Nagaland through international partnerships and exchange platforms.
Officials noted that the British Council has played an important role in supporting cultural initiatives and fostering dialogue between communities through arts and educational programmes. The organisation’s continued involvement in the region is seen as an important component of efforts to promote international cooperation and create pathways for mutual learning and development.
The discussions also highlighted the growing importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international relationships. Participants emphasized that cultural exchanges help build trust, understanding, and long-term partnerships that extend beyond government-to-government engagement.
According to officials, the meeting reflects Nagaland’s broader efforts to engage with international institutions and leverage global partnerships for social, cultural, and economic development. By strengthening ties with organisations such as the British Council, the state aims to create new opportunities for local communities while promoting Nagaland’s unique cultural identity on the global stage.
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The interaction concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration and exploring innovative avenues for partnership in the years ahead. Officials described the meeting as a positive step towards deepening UK–India engagement through Nagaland and strengthening the state's connections with international institutions.
As Nagaland continues to expand its global outreach, partnerships with organisations like the British Council are expected to play an increasingly important role in promoting cultural exchange, educational advancement, and international cooperation, while creating new opportunities for the people of the state.
