External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, along with Heads of Mission and Ambassadors from 45 countries, participated in an elephant safari at Kaziranga National Park on Monday. The visit took place ahead of the Advantage Assam summit, scheduled to be held in Guwahati from February 25.
Jaishankar said, “I am very happy to see the growing number of tourists here. We are here for Advantage Assam, and after this, we are heading to Guwahati. Our aim is to enhance the profile of Assam and the northeastern states, attract more tourists, generate international interest, and bring in more investors. It’s a step in the right direction, and experiencing this early morning safari is a great start to the day.”
When asked about Kaziranga’s growing tourist influx, he responded, “Yes, I know. I was informed that the park has already crossed three lakh visitors. It’s a positive trend. Even the Prime Minister encourages everyone to explore different states because India offers an abundance of natural and cultural tourism experiences.”
Sharing his experience, a delegate from Timor-Leste said, “It was a privilege to visit Kaziranga National Park and witness wild animals like elephants, rhinos, and tigers. Assam has immense potential to offer such experiences to the world. This visit has been truly enjoyable. Nature and wild animals teach us valuable lessons about peace. Even though rhinos and elephants are both known for their aggressive nature, they coexist side by side.”
Another delegate expressed gratitude, saying, “I thank the Minister of External Affairs and the authorities of Assam for offering us an experience that will remain a lifelong memory. Being based in New Delhi, it is wonderful to have this opportunity to see Assam’s natural beauty and immerse ourselves in its serene environment. I wish the animals here a long and healthy life.”
Advantage Assam is the largest investment promotion and facilitation initiative undertaken by the Government of Assam. The event showcases the state’s geostrategic advantages and its potential as a key investment destination. Strategically located in northeastern India, Assam serves as a gateway to Northeast India and Southeast Asia. Known for its lush tea gardens and petroleum resources, the state is now expanding into sectors such as agriculture, food processing, handicrafts, tourism, and information technology.
-ANI
