Kohima: Envoys and senior representatives from several countries reaffirmed their intent to strengthen ties with India as they joined the 26th Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, officials said on Monday.
France, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria and the United Kingdom are participating as partner nations this year, underscoring the festival’s growing international reach and Nagaland’s expanding cultural and economic linkages.
The 2025 edition opened on December 1 at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, coinciding with Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day, and recorded a first-day footfall of 22,508.
French Ambassador Thierry Mathou, attending the event for the first time, said France is looking to enhance cooperation with Nagaland in agri-business, technology, education and tourism.
Irish Ambassador Kevin Kelly described the Hornbill Festival as a symbol of identity and resilience and pointed to historical ties between Ireland and India.
He added that an Irish delegation, including historian and former footballer Terry Phelan, would explore potential sports collaborations.
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Swiss Ambassador Maya Tissafi called the Hornbill Festival one of Asia’s most vibrant cultural showcases and said Switzerland hoped to work with Nagaland on skill development, cultural exchange, sustainable tourism and innovation rooted in indigenous knowledge.
Austria’s Trade Commissioner Hans-Jorg Hortnagl said Austria was keen on partnerships in sustainable tourism, green technologies and skilling initiatives.
Representing the United Kingdom, British Council Director Debanjan Chakrabarty said the UK’s engagement with Hornbill has longstanding roots, highlighting past collaborations and ongoing scholarship opportunities for Naga students.
He added that the UK’s participation this year aligns with new India–UK agreements on trade, education and cultural cooperation.
