Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday said the ‘Aavakai – Amaravati Festival’ reflects the cultural strength and traditions of Andhra Pradesh. He attended the celebrations held on the banks of the Krishna River in Vijayawada.
The Tourism Department organised the festival to promote Telugu national pride. European Union Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, also took part in the event. During his address, Chandrababu Naidu praised the hospitality, taste, and creativity of the Telugu people. According to him, these qualities place Andhra Pradesh on the global cultural map.
Tourism to Drive Economic Growth
Highlighting the role of tourism, the Chief Minister said the sector will become the state’s largest economic resource. Over the next ten years, the government plans to create one lakh tourist rooms across Andhra Pradesh. In addition, Suryalanka Beach will be developed on the lines of Goa.
Moreover, Chandrababu Naidu said festivals at Polavaram–Papikondalu, Araku, and Gandikota will attract international attention. He pointed out that Araku coffee has already gained global recognition, proving the state’s tourism potential.
Andhra Pradesh Emerges as Investment Destination
Referring to economic growth, the Chief Minister said a Bank of Baroda report identified Andhra Pradesh as a major investment hub. As per the report, the state attracted 25 percent of total investments in the country. Furthermore, nearly 30 percent of central PPP projects are currently underway in AP.
At the same time, Chandrababu Naidu reiterated that Amaravati will become the most dynamic city in the world. He stressed that safety and cleanliness remain essential to attract tourists and investors alike.
Telugu Cinema Reflects Creative Excellence
Speaking about Telugu cinema, the Chief Minister said creativity defines its identity. From Bhakta Prahlada to Baahubali, the industry has reached remarkable milestones. He described it as a matter of pride that legendary actors such as NTR, ANR, Krishna, Shobhan Babu, SVR, Chiranjeevi, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, and Balakrishna come from this region.
He also urged people to return to their villages during the Sankranti festival. Preserving traditions, he said, strengthens cultural roots.
EU Expresses Willingness to Partner with AP
European Union Ambassador Hervé Delphin said Andhra Pradesh is growing rapidly in both economic and technological sectors. Therefore, he expressed the EU’s readiness to partner with the state in areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and green hydrogen.
Additionally, Delphin revealed plans to organise an EU Film Festival in Andhra Pradesh in the near future. Sharing his personal experience, he said films like Baahubali and RRR impressed him greatly. He added that the song ‘Naatu Naatu’ left a lasting impact.
The festival concluded with cultural performances that highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s heritage and future aspirations.
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