Kohima: Stating that there was an overwhelming desire among Nagaland's people for permanent peace with honour and dignity, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee on October 28 said the Centre had an equally strong desire for it, based on a lasting solution.

"It is this mutual desire that has driven the peace process forward. If we continue to work together in an atmosphere of mutual trust, understanding and patience, the day is not far when we reach our goal," the Prime Minister said, hinting at the progress of political talks with National Socialist Council of Nagaland – Isaak/Muivah (NSCN-IM).

Urging the people to leave behind the prolonged suffering and bloody chapter of conflict and look for a future, Vajpayee appreciated the contribution of all organisations, social groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) towards the current peace talks between the Centre and the NSCN-IM.

"Now time has come to leave the sad chapter of conflict and violence behind us. This is the time for re- conciliation and peace-making," the Prime Minister said.

"It is true that of all states in India, Nagaland has a unique history. We are sensitive to this historical fact. But this uniqueness has in no way diminished the spirit of patriotism among the Naga people," Vajpayee said.

The Naga outfit has been demanding that the Centre should recognise the "unique history and position" of Nagas while finding an amicable settlement to the protracted political problem.

PTI