UK envoy praises Guwahati airport, CM Sarma says visit can open new chapter in ties

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday welcomed British diplomat Dr Andrew Fleming to the state, saying his visit could mark a “new chapter” in closer UK-Assam ties.

Fleming, who serves as the UK Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India, said in a post on social media that his latest visit to Assam was his 10th and marked an anniversary of his association with the state.

“This is an anniversary visit (10th time to Assam) and an exciting one as we have some top UK infrastructure companies visiting this week,” Fleming said.

He also praised the newly inaugurated terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, saying the visiting UK infrastructure companies would appreciate the facility.

“Like me they will surely appreciate the new Guwahati Airport terminal - wow, Singapore vibes with an Assamese touch,” Fleming said.

Responding to the diplomat, CM Sarma welcomed him to Assam and expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen ties between the state and the United Kingdom.

“Welcome to Assam, H.E Fleming. I am sure this anniversary visit will mark new chapter in closer UK-Assam ties, bolstered by the strong partnership between India and the UK under Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's leadership,” CM Sarma said.

The Chief Minister also responded to Fleming’s observation about the airport terminal with a light-hearted clarification about its distinctive design.

“P.S- All these plants in the Airport are natural, complementing the bamboos used in the Airport design,” CM Sarma said.

The exchange comes as Assam seeks to strengthen its engagement with international investors and infrastructure companies, particularly in sectors linked to the Northeast’s growing connectivity and economic potential.

Fleming’s visit is also significant as British companies are expected to engage with stakeholders in Assam during the week, with infrastructure emerging as a key area of potential cooperation.

The Guwahati airport terminal has emerged as a prominent symbol of Assam’s modern infrastructure push while incorporating elements associated with the state’s cultural and architectural identity.

The interaction between CM Sarma and Fleming highlights the growing interest in Assam as a destination for international business and infrastructure partnerships.

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