Battle of Imphal
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 05 2024: The Battle of Imphal, also known as Japan Lan was re-visited at a seminar held under the banner "Reflections on Peace from imphal, 80 years later" in Tokyo recently.

The seminar hosted by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Imphal.

The event was participated by diplomats, historians and policymakers including Sibi George, the Ambassador of India to Japan.

The seminar focused on the enduring legacy of the Battle of Imphal and its implications for peace and reconciliation between Japan and India.

A key highlight was the address by Haobam Joyremba, Director of the Imphal Peace Museum.

He emphasized the museum's critical role in preserving the memories of one of World War II's most intense battles, serving as a symbol of reconciliation and a bridge between the people of Japan and Manipur, India.

Joyremba shared the challenges faced in establishing and maintaining the museum, while calling for sustained international support to ensure its role in fostering understanding and peace, especially for future generations.

Manipur Tourism Forum president P.Kunjabihari also attended the event.

Atsushi Sunami, the president of Sasakawa Peace Foundation, deliberated on the need for peace and peace education which needs to be imparted from childhood stage.

He also emphasized on how important the Imphal Peace Museum has become with more than 70,000 and more tourists already visiting the museum.

Yohei Sasakawa, Chairman of the Nippon Foundation, delivered a powerful speech underscoring the importance of peace-building in the present context, particularly in Manipur.

He emphasized the urgency of involving all stakeholders to address current challenges and fulfil the unfinished dream of many�visiting the Imphal Peace Museum.

Significantly, both Joyremba and Sasakawa reflected on the unrealized visit of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Imphal Peace Museum.

The visit, which was intended to include a symbolic tree plantation and a "Chai Pe Charcha" (tea conversation) had to be postponed due to an unexpected situation in Guwahati.

The two leaders were set to leave a lasting tribute to peace and friendship, but the plans were disrupted.

Joyremba and Sasakawa stressed the importance of fulfilling this dream as a tribute to late Shinzo Abe.

The event underscored the deepening relationship between Japan and India, with a focus on mutual understanding and collaboration.

Discussions not only reflected on the past but also set a forward-looking agenda for peace and reconciliation, highlighting the unfulfilled commitments that remain as significant goals for the future.

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