British High Commissioner to India, Dominic Asquith stated that the UK government would work closely with the Manipur government to bring economic prosperity in the State.
He mentioned that India, Japan, and the UK will collectively work together to overcome the challenges of the 21st century. As UN members, the three countries have a common purpose in preserving and strengthening the international system of co-operation. This was stated by D Asquith who was the guest of honour at the Commemoration of Platinum Jubilee of The Battle of Imphal held at the Auditorium of MSFDS, Imphal East on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador of Japan to India, Kenji Hiramatsu said that there is huge potential in collaboration with the people of NorthEast India and would like to have an Intellectual Dialogue with the people to see visible changes in the region. He invited the promising youths to work in Japan under the Technical Intern Training Programme.
Kenji Hiramatsu further mentioned that 24 youths including 6 Manipuris have enjoyed the first-hand experience in Japan this year under the Youth Exchange Programme. He stated that the Japanese government is committed to having a strong relationship with India.
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh who was the chief guest of the function has said that the Indo-Japan partnership could explore opportunities in Manipur in the areas like road connectivity infrastructure, tourism, trade capacity building, and healthcare.
The Chief Minister said that mechanisms could be institutionalized for collaboration amongst educational and medical institutions in the areas of research, training, exchange programmes, etc. Chief Minister stated that Manipur is the land gateway to SouthEast Asian countries. He stated that the State government is actively considering setting-up of a Logistics Park, setting up of Gems and Jewellery Park and a second Food Park in the State. Integrated Check Post at Moreh has now been commissioned towards boosting border management and trade infrastructure, he added.
On the occasion, Chief Minister mentioned that such commemoration solemnly reminded of the courage and sacrifices of the past. Human progress and prosperity must be based on the foundation of peace and collaboration, he added.
During the function, Chief Minister also released a Souvenir in commemoration of 75th Anniversary of Battle of Imphal.
Chairman of Manipur Tourism Corporation and MLA of Konthoujam A/C Dr. Sapam Ranjan, Chairman, Nippon Foundation, Shri Yohei Sasakawa, officials of State Government, around 200 delegates from Japan attended the function. The function is jointly organized Manipur Tourism, Govt. of Manipur, Manipur Tourism Forum and 2nd World War Imphal campaign Foundation.