Guwahati: A high-level European Union (EU) delegation will visit Assam and other northeastern states on Monday and Tuesday. The visit will also mark the launch of Assam’s first Blue Valley Cluster, a new industrial hub focused on fragrances, flavours, AYUSH products and food processing.In a statement issued on Sunday, the EU said the “public-private-people partnership” cluster aims to connect Europe, the northeast, and Bhutan, while promoting innovation, research, sustainable manufacturing and business collaboration.The pilot project, led by the Assam, aligns with the Blue Valleys initiative introduced at the 2026 EU-India summit. The high-level “Team Europe” delegation will be in Guwahati to strengthen collaboration between Europe and the eight northeastern states, in line with the joint comprehensive strategic agenda agreed upon by the EU and India at their summit in January.“The Blue Valleys initiative aims to promote industrial clusters, MSME linkages, and sector-specific value chain integration between the EU and India, while ensuring economic growth and environmental sustainability. Key sectors identified under this initiative include clean energy, natural ingredients, bamboo-based industries, eco-friendly textiles, biotechnology, wellness, and smart manufacturing,” the statement said.It added that the initiative seeks to develop scalable business models that support local communities while linking them to European markets.The EU delegation will include ambassadors and senior representatives from EU member states, including Hervé Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union to India and Bhutan, along with European business representatives.Team Europe ambassadors will hold a bilateral meeting with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. A business delegation led by the Federation of European Businesses in India (FEBI) will also meet state officials to explore trade and investment opportunities.Ambassador Hervé Delphin said Northeast India, with Assam at its centre, has significant potential owing to its rich resources and skilled workforce, and is already among India’s fastest-growing regions.“Through initiatives like Blue Valleys, we are not just discussing cooperation; we are building long-term business-to-business partnerships that will drive growth for both the EU and India,” he said.Sarma said the engagement will create new opportunities for investment, employment, and cross-border collaboration.“Welcome to Assam, Team Europe. The visit of the EU delegation to Assam on June 8, 2026, marks an important chapter in strengthening India-EU relations, deepening trade ties, and advancing shared progress. With Assam’s growing strengths in agriculture, tea, technology, energy, manufacturing, and innovation, this engagement will open new avenues for investment, jobs, and cross-border collaboration,” Sarma wrote on X.Sarma expressed confidence that the visit would support local enterprises, expand opportunities for the youth, and strengthen Assam’s role in India’s Act East Policy and global outreach.
