Dimapur, Dec. 18 (EMN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and leader of opposition TR Zeliang have welcomed the positive approach of the government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah towards expediting the ongoing Indo-Naga talks.
Following their joint press conference on November 5, the two leaders issued a joint statement on Friday “for clarity and general understanding in the greater interests of peace and unity”.
It stated that on the initiative of Nagaland government, a consultative meeting was held on October 15 at the state banquet hall, Chief Minister's residential complex, Kohima, among ‘Naga hohos, mass-based organisations, civil societies, church organisations, political parties, NGOs and prominent individuals’ to discuss the Naga issue as well as the ongoing peace talks.
The meeting, it added, adopted the following resolutions that echo and reflect the general sentiments of the Naga people: Appreciated the government of India for recognising the unique history of the Naga people and making earnest efforts to find a political settlement to the Naga issue; acknowledged the sacrifices and contributions of the Naga people to promote and protect their interests; expressed gratitude to the civil societies and the church for consistently supporting Naga interests and making persistent efforts towards reconciliation and unity among the Naga people; affirmed commitment to continuously work towards a political settlement based on the unique history and identity of the Naga people; urged the Naga organisations to uphold the values of reconciliation and non-violence in the interests of the future of the Naga people; appealed to the Naga organisations participating in the peace talks (NSCN/GPRN and NNPG) to come together under the spirit of reconciliation, mutual trust and understanding, and strive with sincerity and commitment towards achieving a solution based on pragmatic considerations; and affirmed to relentlessly work in a collective and unified manner with one voice so as to facilitate the peace process and strengthen the peace talks for early realisation of an acceptable, inclusive and honourable solution in a transparent manner.
“The NPF party under the banner of the Political Affairs Mission had also taken the initiative to organise a consultative meeting on September 14, 2020 at Rhododendron Hall, NAPTC, Chümoukedima, which is equally appreciated. The NPF party has also acknowledged the content and spirit of the resolutions adopted at the consultative meeting on October 15, 2020 and is committed to actively support all initiatives towards resolution of the Naga issue.
“Both the leaders in unison hereby request the government of India and the Naga organisations participating in the peace talks to arrive at an early solution which will bring lasting peace and prosperity to the people of the region,” the statement read.