Karaiba Chawang
Kohima | December 6
US Consul General, Henry Victor Jardine today said that his country always wanted to ensure peaceful resolution of the Indo-Naga conflict basing on a solution that would be permanent and satisfactory to both sides. He however said that US ‘intrusion’ into the long drawn Indo-Naga conflict will further complicate the issue. “It is a complicated issue. Our intrusion may further complicate the issue”, said Henry, while addressing pressmen at Hotel Japfu before his departure for Dimapur.
US Consul General, who met State Governor Shyamal Datta, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Home Minister Thenucho, Medical Minister Dr TM Lotha, Chief Secretary and almost all apex Naga organizations like the Naga Hoho, NSF, NMA and other civil societies during his two-day stay in the state capital, said that he had rounds of interactions on almost all issues confronting the Nagas and to get himself acquainted with it, which include social, economic, political and health issues.
“We also had an interaction on the ongoing peace talks at Amsterdam between the Government of India and NSCN-IM”, Henry said, adding that there was a general air about whether there is a potential of achieving understanding between the warring NSCN factions and other groups and the government of India.
“We want to maintain good relationship with every organization or country”, said Henry, when asked to comment on setting up of NSCN-IM embassy next to White House. On security issue, the ongoing ceasefire between the government of India and NSCN factions was discussed, but did not elaborate.
The US Consul General also prioritized peace as a prerequisite to attract foreign investors. However, the process may take time like as it usually does in any part of India. “If peace reign, it may be possible for investors to come”, added the US Consul General. He also said that the private sector has to play a big part in developing infrastructures in the State.
When asked about restrictions put on US citizens to visit Nagaland, the Consul General was quick to clarify that citizens were free to visit places of their choice, although they are cautioned through travel advisories, of the prevailing situation in those areas.
“We do advice our citizens to be aware of the situation and be cautious where there is possibility of violence, but it is up to the individual”, said Henry.
However, he stressed on the need to relax RAP and the improvement of infrastructure like accommodation.
On the HIV/AIDS scenario, although Henry said that he could not make an exact assessment of the HIV/AIDS situation in the state in just two days, he said that as per the information he received it was alarming and the need therefore to combat the disease. Stating that the US would contemplate on providing health care facilities like nutrition and ART, Henry emphasized on the need to change individual behavior in order to prevent the spread of the epidemic.
“Individuals need to change their behavior. They are responsible for their own health”, Henry said. He appreciated the ongoing extensive campaign by different agencies in the state against the spread of the disease. He also said that the US is spending about $29 million in India to fight HIV/AIDS.
