The Minister of State for External Affairs and Education, Rajkumar Ranjan Singh embarked on an official visit to Vietnam to participate in the third edition of the North East India Festival (NEIF) held in Ho Chi Minh City.

The NEIF, previously hosted in 2019 and 2022 in Bangkok, commenced with a grand inauguration led by the minister, along with the participation of Bui Xuan Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, and Nguyen Long Bien, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Ninh Thuan. The event also witnessed ministerial and senior official delegations from various North Eastern States of India.

The prestigious festival was meticulously organized by the Embassy of India in Hanoi and the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City. It was carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and several state governments from North East India. The entire event was expertly coordinated by M/s Trend MMS.

The festival attracted a multitude of dignitaries, entrepreneurs, academic institutions, and artists from both India and Vietnam. It encompassed a wide range of activities, including seminars and exhibitions, showcasing an array of products, notably exquisite handicrafts from North East India.

During his visit, Rajkumar Ranjan Singh held a bilateral meeting with Bui Xuan Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, to discuss matters of mutual interest and collaboration between the two nations. He also took the opportunity to interact with members of the Indian community residing in Ho Chi Minh City, fostering cultural and diplomatic ties.

The core objective of NEIF was to strengthen cooperation between India and Vietnam and to promote awareness of India's North Eastern region, a crucial element of India's 'Act East Policy.' The festival provided a platform for cultural exchange and economic partnerships, contributing to the broader goal of enhancing India's engagement with Southeast Asian countries. It highlighted the significance of India's North Eastern states in promoting trade, tourism, and cultural connections in the region.

The 3rd North East India Festival, a vibrant 3-day extravaganza, commenced on October 27 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, fostering cooperation and dialogue between India and Vietnam.

This event brought together notable figures from both countries, including union ministers, chief ministers, provincial leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and tour operators, facilitating constructive discussions on education, trade, and cultural awareness.

During the first and second days of the festival, a multitude of discussions and partnerships unfolded, focusing on education exchange, trade and business initiatives, flight connectivity, and tourism collaborations. Stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and representatives from educational institutions converged to explore growth opportunities and collaboration, fostering an environment conducive to progress and development.

The grand finale on October 29 culminated in a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity. The event featured a splendid showcase of North Eastern dance forms, such as Bagrumba (Boro), Bhortaal (Assam), Drum Ensemble & Flute (Meghalaya), Tiwa Dance (Assam), Mwsaglangnai (Boro), Bihu Dance (Assam), Mishing (Assam), Daosri Delai (Boro), Drum Beating (Meghalaya), and Jarapagla (Boro). Furthermore, captivating folk performances by Vietnamese artists added a unique and enchanting flavor to the festival, enriching the cultural exchange between the two nations.

Image source: ANI