The vibrant culmination of the third edition of the ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp (AIAC) in Shillong brought with it a powerful reaffirmation of India’s cultural diplomacy and regional vision. Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, addressing the gathering at Tripura Castle on Monday, underscored the enduring cultural, civilizational and strategic bonds between India and ASEAN nations.
“We are committed to further strengthening the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the firm support of ASEAN unity and ASEAN centrality,” said the Union Minister, reiterating India’s commitment to the region. “As a global friend, India will continue to work with ASEAN member states.”
The ten-day camp, held under the aegis of the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with Seher, featured 21 artists from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste, and India. Their works, inspired by the ‘Ethos of Ramayana: The Artistic Genres of ASEAN and India,’ reflected centuries-old cultural linkages. Commending the artists’ contributions, Margherita said, “I complement the 21 artists for being here from great nations… for creating the wonderful artworks, these are simply amazing pieces and truly reflected the theme of the camp. We all know that Ramayana is as popular in all the ASEAN countries as in India. The artwork of the artists reflects our emotions, culture and shared experience regarding Ramayana.”
Highlighting the deeper implications of such cultural collaborations, he added, “This camp has indeed brought all of us together to appreciate our several milleniumable cultural and civilization connections. India’s relation with ASEAN are based on shared values and common aspirations.”
The Minister also framed ASEAN as integral to India’s regional policy. While, emphasizing the geopolitical importance of the grouping. The Union Minister announced a new thrust for collaboration, he stated, “The year 2025 has been designated as the Year of ASEAN-India-Europe Tourism.”
Positioning Northeast India as the country’s critical bridge to Southeast Asia, Margherita remarked, “Northeast is considered as India’s gateway to ASEAN countries and in the past decade the Northeast has established new benchmark for development and emerged as hub of India’s growth story.”
Tourism Minister of Meghalaya, Paul Lyngdoh, who also addressed the audience, described Meghalaya as a cultural mosaic. “Meghalaya is a small place that unites all the culture,” he said, inviting guests and dignitaries to an upcoming event. “Hopefully you will join us in the month of June for the inauguration of Meghalaya Textile Hub in Ri Bhoi District.”
The artworks produced during the camp, displayed at the concluding exhibition in Shillong, will now be showcased in New Delhi and Malaysia—extending the dialogue of shared heritage beyond borders.