Ceremony for the 3rd Anniversary of Imphal Peace Museum

Video Message

It is an honor to join you today in solemn remembrance of the people of Manipur who lost their lives during the war 78 years ago. Theirs was the ultimate sacrifice. But the Imphal Peace Museum, which today celebrates its 3rd anniversary, is an expression of their hopes for a peaceful future. I would therefore like to express my deepest respect for the untiring efforts of Dr. Thangjam Dhabali Singh, President Krishnan Singh, and Director Haobam Joyremba. Dr. Dhabali Singh in particular was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, by the Government of Japan last year. He received the medal in recognition of his outstanding efforts to deepen the friendship between Japan and the State of Manipur. This includes his contribution to establishing the Imphal Peace Museum.

The Imphal Peace Museum today plays a very important role as a bridge between the past and the future and between Japan and the State of Manipur. It is the dedication and efforts of all of you that have made this possible. Last year, India was no exception in experiencing national crisis from COVID-19 which raged around the world However, it was for the friendship we have built through the founding of this museum that The Nippon Foundation was able to send oxygen concentrators and other necessary medical equipment for COVID-19 treatment to the State of Manipur. We would be most happy if we have been of assistance to you in any small way.

Every year, Director Joyremba sends me a beautiful photograph. It is a photograph of a cherry blossom that we planted at the opening of the museum three years ago. It is a joy to see its growth and it will be symbolizing the success of the museum. It is my dream that through this museum, the relationship between Japan and State of Manipur, and with India, will deepen still further. I look forward to seeing all of you soon in person. At the same time, I sincerely hope for the further development of the museum. Thank you very much.

＊This video message is available at The Nippon Foundation YouTube.