A Sacred Journey Sparks Strategic Diplomacy
Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati led an important cultural and diplomatic mission to Vietnam, accompanying the sacred relics of Lord Buddha back to India. In a significant gesture to deepen ties, he proposed province-level collaboration between Odisha and Vietnam’s coastal city of Da Nang. The suggestion was made during his meeting with H.E. Le Trung Chinh, Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee.
This visit, rooted in spiritual and cultural reverence, laid the foundation for a broader, more strategic partnership. Highlighting shared Buddhist traditions and development goals, the Governor emphasized how both regions could mutually benefit from sustained cooperation.
Buddhism as a Bridge: A Shared Heritage
Governor Kambhampati underscored the deep historical connection between India and Vietnam through Buddhism. “Buddhism has linked our civilizations for nearly 1,800 years,” he said, noting that Odisha, like Da Nang, is home to many important Buddhist sites such as Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, and Udayagiri. These common spiritual ties, he said, could evolve into collaborative ventures in cultural preservation, religious tourism, and education.
The sacred relics of Lord Buddha, which received an overwhelmingly warm reception in Vietnam, were given the highest protocol by both governments. Kambhampati personally accompanied them, symbolizing India’s commitment to promoting its Buddhist heritage and honoring its spiritual bond with Vietnam.
Economic and Strategic Synergies
Moving beyond cultural ties, the Governor emphasized economic opportunities. “Da Nang has ambitions to become a key hub for maritime trade, technology, finance, and tourism. These goals align well with Odisha’s development priorities,” he noted.
Odisha, with its own fast-growing industrial and coastal economy, is well-positioned to complement Da Nang’s growth trajectory. A province-level partnership could facilitate trade, investments, academic exchanges, and port-to-port cooperation. The Governor proposed initiating dialogues in tourism development, health services, the digital economy, and sustainable practices.
A Testament to Growing Bilateral Warmth
Governor Kambhampati also acknowledged the broader momentum in India-Vietnam ties. He cited the visit of the Vietnamese Prime Minister to India and recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam’s President To Lam in New York as milestones reinforcing mutual trust.
The Governor also praised Da Nang’s collaboration with the Indian Embassy, particularly in cultural diplomacy initiatives such as yoga promotion and academic programs. He noted, “These people-to-people initiatives create a strong, living bridge between our nations.”
Preserving the Past, Building the Future
During his visit, the Governor toured the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son, where Indian archaeologists are restoring ancient Hindu temples. He lauded their efforts, calling it a “living testimony of India’s contribution to preserving shared heritage.”
In proposing formal ties between Odisha and Da Nang, Governor Kambhampati’s visit went beyond symbolism. It demonstrated how history and culture can inspire new pathways in diplomacy, development, and cooperation.
A New Chapter in India-Vietnam Relations
Governor Kambhampati’s initiative has opened a meaningful door between Odisha and Da Nang, reinforcing the value of cultural diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific. As the relics return to India, they leave behind a renewed spirit of collaboration—one rooted in shared history, strengthened by mutual respect, and driven by a shared vision for prosperity.
(With agency inputs)
