The Nagaland government and the British Council have officially cemented their collaboration by signing a significant agreement that confirms the United Kingdom's position as a country partner for the upcoming Hornbill Festival in 2025. This partnership marks a milestone in international cultural cooperation between Nagaland and the UK.
Historic Agreement Signed in New Delhi
The formal agreement was inked on Monday in the nation's capital, New Delhi, in a ceremony that brought together senior representatives from both sides. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India for the British Council, were the signatories to this important document.
The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of Lindy Cameron CB OBE, the British High Commissioner to India, along with other senior officials from both the Nagaland government and British institutions. This high-level participation underscores the importance both parties place on this cultural partnership.
Strengthening Cultural Bridges
According to official statements, this agreement solidifies the ongoing collaboration between Nagaland and the United Kingdom, with focused objectives to promote cultural exchange, support creative talent, and enhance global visibility for Nagaland's rich cultural heritage.
The British Council, serving as the UK's international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities, is working in close coordination with the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata to develop meaningful programming for the festival. This coordinated effort ensures that the UK's participation will be comprehensive and impactful.
Scottish Artist to Grace the Festival
Continuing the tradition from previous editions, the British Council is bringing an artist from the UK to participate in the festival. This year, Scottish artist Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) is scheduled to perform on December 2, adding an international flavor to the cultural extravaganza.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: "Nagaland is honoured to welcome the UK as our country partner for this year's Hornbill Festival. This partnership reflects our shared values and a strong commitment to cultural exchange, collaboration, and people-to-people ties."
Rio further emphasized that the UK's participation will significantly enrich the festival experience and open new avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors including culture, tourism, education, and enterprise. He extended a warm invitation to "welcome our friends from the UK to the 'Land of Festivals'".
Building on Previous Successes
British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron CB OBE, highlighted the significance of this continuing partnership: "The UK is proud to support the incredible Hornbill Festival once again as a country partner. The deep personal and cultural connections between the UK and India, our living bridge, are what make this partnership so special."
She recalled that Welsh, Naga, and Khasi artists performed together at the festival's silver jubilee last year, and expressed excitement about following that successful collaboration with Scottish music this year through Ruairidh Maclean's performance.
This partnership represents more than just a cultural exchange—it symbolizes the strengthening bonds between Nagaland and the United Kingdom, creating platforms for mutual understanding and creative collaboration that benefit both regions.
