Prince Andrew Brought Greetings From Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth

The Duke of York, on behalf of the Queen in celebration of Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee visited Kohima yesterday, 1st May 2012.

Addressing the gathering at his civic reception held at the NBCC
Convention Hall, Kohima, Prince Andrew, The Duke of York thanked for
the opportunity given to him to visit Kohima.

He conveyed greetings from Her Majesty who knows about the sacrifices the Nagas made in the ‘Battle of Kohima'. He said that the most important aspect of his visit is to lay a wreath in memory of those who laid down their lives in the battle.

He said that it is very important for the modern generation to
remember the sacrifices that took place in Kohima and by visiting
Kohima he had recognized the contributions made.

State Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio in his welcome address said that it
is a red-letter day and a historic occasion for the people of Nagaland
and hoped it would go a long way in strengthening the relationship
between the British and the Nagas especially for the younger
generations who were born after India's Independence.

Rio said that Kohima is known all over the world because of the historic and decisive 'Battle of Kohima' fought between the British army and the Japanese army, which was described by Lord Mountbatten as probably one of the greatest battles in history. The local Naga people played a crucial role in the victory of the allied forces in the battle and till today, Nagas have pride in the fact that we have contributed towards the victory of the allied forces that fought for freedom and democracy, Rio added.

Rio said that the visit of His Royal Highness is expected to usher in
new era for greater partnership and better understanding between the
Nagas and the British, which will be mutually beneficial. Nagas are
still in search of a permanent and lasting peace, and we have great
hope that a peaceful and non-violent approach on the basis of political
negotiations will bring about resolution of the Naga issue, and create
lasting peace, Rio further added.

The civic reception held in honour of the visit of the Duke of York
also showcased Naga couples from all tribes in traditional attires,
Chokri folk songs and Khiamnungan War dance.

- Asian Tribune –

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