Global diplomats rally behind Northeast’s growth story at MDoNER’s ambassadors’ meet

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 16, 2025

In a major push to attract global investment and deepen international cooperation, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) hosted the Ambassadors’ Meet in New Delhi on Tuesday. The event saw participation from over 80 countries, with Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and senior diplomats engaging in dialogue on opportunities across India’s eight northeastern states.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, addressing the gathering, positioned the Northeast as a strategic economic and geopolitical asset. He called on global partners to explore the region’s untapped potential—highlighting its natural resources, cultural diversity, and growing connectivity. Emphasizing the Northeast’s role as India’s gateway to Southeast Asia, Scindia invited nations to join India in transforming the region into a hub of innovation, trade, and connectivity.

Minister of State Dr. Sukanta Majumdar echoed the sentiment, underscoring major infrastructure projects completed over the past decade, including expansions in air, rail, and road networks. He emphasized the Prime Minister’s vision of the Northeast as “Asthalakshmi,” a vital force in building a developed India (Viksit Bharat). Dr. Majumdar urged international investors to tap into opportunities across sectors ranging from agriculture and tourism to IT and logistics.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu added a state-level perspective, outlining Arunachal’s unique strengths within the larger Northeast ecosystem.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar, in a video message, reinforced the Northeast’s pivotal role in India’s foreign and trade policies. He pointed to projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit and the region’s potential to become a launchpad for  India’s  engagement with ASEAN markets.

MDoNER Secretary Chanchal Kumar laid out a sector-wise investment roadmap, spotlighting areas like IT services, healthcare, education, textiles, tourism, and clean energy. He reiterated MDoNER’s commitment to work with diplomatic missions and global investors to create jobs, boost infrastructure, and drive inclusive growth across the region.

Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Periasamy Kumaran, highlighted the Northeast’s strategic location, sharing international borders with five countries. He called it a natural base for India’s growing links with ASEAN and neighbours like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.

The Ambassadors’ Meet is part of the lead-up to the Northeast Investors Summit, scheduled for May 23–24, 2025. Tuesday’s event generated strong interest from diplomats, many of whom expressed willingness to collaborate on projects in the region. It not only showcased the Northeast’s vast possibilities but also laid the foundation for new partnerships focused on sustainable development and shared prosperity.