Kohima: In a significant move towards international cooperation, the Government of Nagaland hosted a high-level delegation from the Republic of Korea on Wednesday to explore strategic partnerships across multiple sectors.
Organized by the Department of Industries & Commerce, the meeting took place in Kohima and was chaired by Hekani Jakhalu, Member of the Legislative Assembly and Advisor to the department, alongside Director P. Tokugha Sema.
The South Korean delegation was led by Sang Woo Lim, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Korean Embassy in New Delhi.
According to a statement from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, the dialogue aimed to identify collaborative opportunities in trade, investment, technology exchange, and capacity building.
Discussions centered around sectors where Nagaland has significant potential and South Korea offers technological expertise—including agro-processing, handicrafts, textiles, logistics, human resource development, and sustainable industries.
Addressing the gathering, Hekani Jakhalu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and attracting both domestic and foreign investment.
“Nagaland has immense untapped potential in agro-processing, handloom and handicrafts, organic farming, healthcare, and tourism. Collaborations such as this one can drive economic growth and empower our youth,” she said.
Director Sema extended a warm welcome to the Korean delegation and emphasized the department’s focus on building impactful partnerships that can generate employment and boost economic development.
Sang Woo Lim expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the state and conveyed strong interest in working closely with Nagaland.
“If I were to invest in India, Nagaland would be my top choice,” Lim remarked, noting South Korea’s increasing engagement with Northeast India.
He also underscored Korea’s strengths in innovation, SME development, and human resource training—areas that align well with Nagaland’s vision for economic transformation and entrepreneurship.
The meeting also explored opportunities for cultural and educational exchange, including the promotion and expansion of Korean language education in the state.
Both sides agreed to pursue follow-up discussions to identify specific projects for collaboration and move towards implementation.
The meeting concluded on a positive and optimistic note, with a shared resolve to deepen bilateral ties and enhance people-to-people and institutional connections.
