US Consul General Mesmerised By Mizo Unique Culture

Aizawl, Mar 5 : Kolkata-based US Consul General Beth A Payne, who graced Mizos' biggest festival Chapchar Kut here today, said she was completely mesmerised by the unique culture of the Mizos.

I am truly honoured to be here to witness the unique culture, beautiful songs and dances of the Mizos on this festive occasion, Ms Payne told reporters after attending the grand festival.

She hoped that her fellow Americans would be interested to discover in the Northeast the great diversity of India.

I will go back to America and tell about the diverse people in Mizoram, and the Northeast India in general, to my friends. You would be seeing more of my chaps coming here, she said, and underlined the need to tap the huge potential, such as this festival, to boost tourism industry.

Aware of the rising investment potential in the Northeast, the diplomat said it was the US’s interest to learn more about the Northeast region.

The US is looking for opportunities of partnership in the North East. That is why we have found it necessary to spend more time in the Northeast, she said.

We encourage increased US investment in the Northeast as it has considerable investment potential, especially in the hydro-power, gas-based power projects, infrastructure and food processing sector, Ms Payne said.

Asked in what sectors the US would be interested in investing in the state, the US diplomat said it was up to the people of Mizoram to decide what type of measures they want to put in place, whether they want to encourage foreign investors or not.

If you float international tenders, we would be more than happy to make sure that the American companies enter, she said, adding that American partners are one of the most honest and reliable trade partners in the world.

Hailing India’s ‘Look East Policy’, Ms Payne revealed that this would foster economic growth and greater stability and security throughout the region.

India's Northeastern states stand to gain from more free and open trade. We believe that India can play an ever larger role in promoting the benefits of free trade among friendly nations, she said.

Saying that the US wanted to double the number of Indian students going to the US, Ms Payne encouraged Mizo students to understand the ways scholarship were granted in America.

She suggested Mizo students to write about their unique culture while applying for scholarships.

American universities would be interested in having students coming from diverse culture and background, she said.