Around 100 delegates for B20, the official G20 dialogue forum for global business community, scheduled at Kohima from April 5 reached the airport here on Tuesday.
Interacting with Nagaland Post, most of the delegates expressed happiness to be invited to the State and exuded confidence in the State’s tourism and textile potential. Impressed with the culture, tradition and hospitality of the State, ambassador of Cuba to India said he was here to know Nagaland, its people and tradition, besides strengthening ties between Cuba and India, including Nagaland, and explore business opportunities.
Another foreign delegate said he was definitely looking forward to investing in technology, food processing and agriculture sectors, noting that there was also much potential for Nagaland in the tourism sector. He opined that Nagaland should have the aim to bring more tourists. Another delegate said her aim was to collaborate with various stakeholders and do something for the State as well as for the nation.
A delegate from the Icelandic Business Council said he was looking forward for possible collaboration in art, culture, tradition and technology. Pointing out that those were the possible avenues for collaboration, he expressed the hope that the State would be able to exploit its potential.
A delegate from Canada expressed his country’s desire to invest in the State’s renewable energy sector. He however mentioned that his interest had sifted to tourism and textile industry after only a few minutes of being in the State and appreciated the traditional welcome.
Most delegates expressed their desire to invest and get involved in sectors such as tourism, technology and agri and allied sector. They also acknowledged the warmth and hospitality of Nagas.
They also expressed their willingness to visit the State again as tourists and not as business delegates, while appreciating the scenic beauty and colourful tradition of Nagas.
It has been learnt that around eight VVIPs had arrived during the day, even as many foreign delegates cancelled their trip.
Meanwhile, it was reported that several student leaders held a brief demonstration near Chathe bridge (Kohima road) holding a banner to draw the attention of the G20 delegates, that arrived on Tuesday, on their way to Kohima.