Continuing with its efforts to bring about reconciliation among the Nagas, the FNR this time, along with the Quaker group visited Noklak on February 23, where a public meeting was held at the village community hall.\nThe joint FNR-Quaker team consisting of 12 members was accorded a rousing public reception upon their arrival in the village.Convenor FNR, Dr. Wati Aier in his speech reminded that all Naga political groups have given commitment for Naga reconciliation adding \u201cthe desire and decision for reconciliation is just the beginning to the long journey of genuine reconciliation.\u201d
\nHe said the Eastern Nagas were important to the Naga family who constituted the first category with rich cultural heritage. He also appealed the Eastern Nagas to remain firm and united on reconciliation and peace stating that Nagas could be strong only when they were united.
\nPointing out that the one year old FNR was birthed through divine intervention in February 2008, Dr Aier said the Forum was open to correction and constructive criticism. \u201cFNR is committed and will not betray the trust of the Naga people,\u201d he added.
\nSpeaking on behalf of the Quaker delegation, Stuart Morton expressed solidarity to the Naga reconciliation movement. He said the involvement of the Quakers, religious Society of Friends in the reconciliation process had a \u201cdeep emotional\u201d attachment with the Naga people and their land.
\nHe recounted an incident during the IInd World War where one Quaker member, Ram, a Tamilian whose family got displaced from Burma was assisted by the Naga people. \u201cOur work is the seed of such action,\u201d he said.
\nStuart also recounted another event during his previous visit to Nagaland where a woman enlightened him on the \u201cimposed division of Naga house into India and Burma\u201d as a result of the British colonial legacy. \u201cI cannot say anything on behalf of British Government but on behalf of British people I seek your forgiveness,\u201d he said.
\nStuart said the Quakers have been working with Naga leaders for the last eight years and that their job was to first listen carefully to the stories, maintain confidentiality, learn and then explore ways to bring about changes. \u201cQuakers works with people who work dedicatedly for peace and amongst them are the FNR – they have been in our mind since London\/Chiangmai\u201d he said.
\nHe said the Quakers would continue to in its efforts by meeting as many leaders as possible. He also said that the Naga people should pray for FNR since it was a gift to the Nagas at this point of struggle.
\nBoth the Quakers and the members of the FNR held informal but separate meetings with Brig. Singya, President FGN and his colleagues before leaving Noklak the following day on February 24.
\nThe meeting was chaired by FNR member Neingulo Krome, Bible reading and invocation by Pinglang, Executive secretary, KBCA, welcome address delivered by W.Chuba Lam, President, KTC where he presented a brief overview of the current situation of the Khiamnuingan community spread across the imposed international boundaries between India and Myanmar.
\nKedallo (Vice President) FGN, Zopra Vero delivered a speech on behalf of the FGN (Brig.Singya). Presentation was given to the representatives of Quakers and FNR by FGN Kilo Kilonser (Home Minister) Zhaleo.
\nShort speeches were also delivered by representatives from Yimchunger Tribal Council and United Sangtam Likhum Bumji.
\nPresident, Kiphire town GB also shared his concerns to the gathering.
\nHighlights of the programme included cultural performances from the Khiamnuingam, Yimchunger, Sangtam, Phom and Chang communities. \u2018Mountain Warriors\u2019 also presented a special number.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"