Hawaii to become sister state of Goa: CM Laxmikant Parsekar

The island state of Hawaii in US will become the "sister state" of Goa soon for attracting tourists and foreign investments in the coastal state. Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar said an MoU would be signed between Hawaii and Goa to formalise the across-the-border partnership.

"The MOU is already vetted by Ministry of External Affairs," he said.

Parsekar said, "the sister-state programme" will promote tourism and also increase the prospective opportunity for economic, social, cultural, educational and environmental exchange. He said the collaboration will also help to minimise the barriers in attracting foreign investment in tourism and the film production sector.

The CM said US Congress member Tulsi Gabbard had expressed her view on strengthening the relations between two states during her visit to Goa in December 2014.

The policy-makers from both the regions are interested in joining hands on various fronts like promotion of trade, tourism, sports, technology, pharmaceuticals, yoga, Ayurvedic, pilgrimage, Hawaiian products and world peace, he added.