Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Union DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced foundation of the skywalk project at Mawkdok in East Khasi Hills during the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival on Friday.
Mawkdok, a popular viewpoint, is a must-stop destination for tourists during their visit to the Sohra tourism circuit, where one can witness the spectacular view of the valley formed by lush green hills on either side, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Guwahati said in a press statement on Saturday.
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The skywalk project is a flagship initiative of the government to further boost tourism in the region.
“Tourism is a very important part of our overall strategy for the region. We are hopeful that the DoNER ministry would continue to support the region to promote it,” Sangma said.
Stating that the government aims to promote Meghalaya to the world, the Chief Minister emphasised that the partnership with Japan is very special which would elevate the festival to a new level, it added.
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Sangma said the partnership with Japan will enable the world to learn about Meghalaya, its culture and close affinities with other Asian nations.
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He thanked Japan for putting up the ‘Japan Arena’ at the festival venue that showcased the cultural diversity, food, music and sports, it said.
Declaring the Japan Arena open, DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said, “It is great to be here in Meghalaya and witness the energy and vibrancy of the people of the Northeast. I am glad to see that the Cherry Blossom Festival is taking on new manifold proportions. Thank Japan for their close relationship with India.”
Scindia also lauded Sangma for his leadership in promoting festivals like Cherry Blossom.
“I have not seen this level of energy in any concerts in India. Hats off to Conrad and the people of Meghalaya,” he added.
Scindia said that Meghalaya should not just be the capital of music in India but for Asia.
R&B icon Akon and legendary Boney M performed at the festival on Friday at Bhoirymbong in Ribhoi district and enthralled the audience, the statement added.