Imphal trip enthrals US diplomat
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 29 2014:
An interactive session was held today at the Classic Hotel between a few media persons and the Consul General of the United States Helen LaFave and Global Affairs Advisor, Kolkata, Sourabh Sen.
Speaking to the media persons about their trip to Imphal, Helen LaFave said that they have been planning the trip for several months.
Though she could not make it to the opening ceremony of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Imphal, she was still delighted to be able to join the concluding ceremony in MFDC auditorium, she added.
Helen LaFave talked about how she even wrote a letter to her parents about the trip and the immense excitement she felt when her father, who takes a keen interest in the events of WWII, told her that his brother had served in Manipur during the WWII.
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The American diplomat stated that she was briefed about Manipur before her visit and she was told about the presence of many armed groups in the State.
However, during her vast interaction with the people here, she said she never came across the term "terrorist" rather they were referred to as insurgents or simply underground organisations.
Talking about her meeting with Chief Minister O Ibobi and also the NPF leader Samuel Risom, the Consul General stressed more on the impressive independent partnerships the country and Manipur State share with the United States in terms of health care services, students' exchange scholarship programs and sports.
When asked about the political plans of US with India, she maintained that though the new Government led by Narendra Modi has been formed in the country, US's and India's shared value remain the same which are to create a committed and co-operative relationship, fight terrorism collectively and be supportive towards the vibrant civil society.
She added that US is also keen in establishing a good rapport with the regional political leaders.
Helen LaFave while talking about the cultural differences between the US and India, did not deny the fact that a large number of Indian women are in the forefront of the Indian politics.
However, she expressed her concern over rising crimes against women in the country such as rapes and being treated differently.
The diplomat, who left for Kolkata this afternoon, added that she visited Ema Keithel and bought several indigenous clothes and accessories which she plans to present to her parents and sister during her visit to the US later in July.