GUWAHATI: A grand gathering of over 52 Vietnamese tour operators and 20 from India’s Northeast marked a prominent discussion at the 3rd North East India Festival in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam.
Aimed at fostering stronger ties between the two regions, the festival’s second day on Saturday saw the presence of dignitaries, chief ministers, union ministers, and influential personalities from both India and Vietnam. These leaders engaged in meaningful discussions focusing on education, trade, and cultural interchange.
Anil Oraw, Regional Director, Ministry of Tourism, India, showcased the nation’s rich cultural and tourism potential to the Vietnamese tour operators. “Our goal is a bilateral enrichment in cultural understanding, tourism, and trade,” said Oraw in his address.
India’s Ambassador to Vietnam, Sandeep Arya, further highlighted the need for enhanced connectivity, trade, and tourism between Vietnam and the Northeast. He echoed support for introducing air routes between Guwahati and the cities of Hanoi and HCMC.
Shyamkanu Mahanta, the brain behind the Festival, was thrilled with the overwhelming response to the event. “This festival marks a monumental step for India in Vietnam, with Northeast pioneering this effort in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East policy. We’re confident that the discussions held today will lead to significant outcomes in education, culture, and trade,” he said.
Dinh Vinh Cuong, Director of the Vietnam International Entrepreneurs Networking Club, elaborated on their plans for the direct flight routes. He said, “Our discussions with Mahanta have been promising. I’m gearing up to spearhead a delegation of 22 investors to North East India to delve deeper into the opportunities the region has to offer.”
Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in HCMC, resonated with the same sentiment. He commented, “This festival is a testimony to the shared vision and collaborative spirit between our nations.”
