Dimapur, September 18 (MExN): Terming it as a ‘historic landmark’ in the struggle for Naga rights, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) informed that the top leaders of NNC/FGN, GPRN/NSCN and NSCN/GPRN met together for the first time to further strengthen the Naga Reconciliation: A Journey of Common Hope. The much anticipated ‘highest level meeting’ took place on Saturday, September 18 in the outskirts of Dimapur.
“Responding to the deep yearning of the Naga people and in affirmation to the call made by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation to convene the highest level reconciliation meeting, Brig (Retd) S. Singnya, Kedaghe of NNC/FGN, N. Kitovi Zhimomi, Ato Kilonser of GPRN/NSCN and Th. Muivah, Ato Kilonser of NSCN/GPRN met in Dimapur to show their commitment and sincerity to the Naga Reconciliation”, stated a press note issued by the FNR.
According to the FNR, the meeting today was “solemn and dignified” while informing that the leaders “patiently listened to each other and emphasized the need for Naga Reconciliation and to end all violence and bloodshed amongst the Nagas”. Further, in a gracious demonstration of solidarity, the FNR stated that the leaders agreed to further strengthen the “Covenant of Naga Reconciliation.”
In today’s highest level meeting Brig (Retd) S. Singnya, Kedaghe of NNC/FGN was accompanied by Zhopra Vero, Peshuo Lam and Puthai Lam. N. Kitovi Zhimomi, Ato Kilonser of GPRN/NSCN was accompanied by Azheto Chopy, Huthrong Yimchungerü and C. Singson. Th. Muivah, Ato Kilonser of NSCN/GPRN was accompanied by Gen (Retd) V S Atem, Qhevihe Chishi and Kedulhitsü Tsuzu.
The FNR which has been pushing for the ‘highest level meeting’ viewed today’s historic meeting as the beginning of a new phase of Naga Reconciliation. While recognizing that the Naga political groups will “need to engage and transcend difficult issues between them”, the FNR stated that it was “encouraged by the positive attitude shown by the leaders” and urged them to continue “displaying wise and courageous leadership for Naga Reconciliation”.
The FNR also expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Naga people for their patience, understanding and support to Naga Reconciliation. “We encourage the Naga people to fearlessly speak and work for Reconciliation in the spirit of forgiveness”.
Besides the FNR stated that along with the Naga people it was deeply thankful of the Baptist World Alliance, Quakers and American Baptist Churches for their prayers and “for walking with the Nagas in our Journey towards Reconciliation”.
The FNR has also conveyed its gratefulness to Mr and Mrs Hukato Naga for hosting the Highest Level Reconciliation meeting at their residence in Ikishe Village. Meanwhile, the FNR has invited the media houses and news agencies in Nagaland for a press briefing on Sunday, September 19, 2010 at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur. The press briefing will commence from 1:00pm.
