Meghalaya seeks S Korean expertise

Meghalaya Power Minister James K. Sangma has said the state government has sought the help of South Korea on land reclamation and to address the problem of waste management. During a meeting in Shillong between the Meghalaya government and a South Korean delegation led by Ambassador Shin BongKil, issues related to solid waste management, closure, reclamation, restoration, rehabilitation of mining affected areas and polluted rivers and water bodies were discussed.

“We have sought their expertise on issues related to solid waste management, closure, reclamation, restoration, rehabilitation of mining-affected areas and polluted rivers and water bodies,” Sangma said.

Bong-Kil was accompanied by representatives from a Korean company which specialises in the fields of reclamation of abandoned mines and restoration of forests, environment and water bodies affected by coal mining and the India Head of Korea Trade PromotionInvestment Agency (KOTRA), to explore the possibilities of economic cooperation and bilateral trade and investments in the state.

“Meghalaya was very keen to cooperate with the Republic of Korea in areas such as reclamation of abandoned mines, restoration of water bodies, in which South Korea has the expertise and experience to carry out the same,” the Ambassador said.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma will also lead a team of state delegates to South Korea to strengthen ties between the two governments, particularly in undertaking various collaborative projects. Bong-Kil, who later attended the closing function of this year’s India International Cherry Blossom Festival, was delighted that Korean pop was immensely popular in the state. “This is the best ever time in bilateral relationship between the two countries and the future looks even better, and Meghalaya can contribute to it,” Bong-Kil said.