Asian Conference

Te Ao Hou, December 1967, Page 55

Asian Conference Revd Te Napi Waaka and Eddie Durie were among 65 Youth Leaders from 15 Asian Countries who went to Singapore last April for a Consultation sponsored by the East Asian Christian Council on ‘The Church, the Young Churchman and the Nation’. The fact that so many of the delegates were active young people directly involved with youth work and representing a diversity of professions, and not ‘Senior Citizens of a mature and high intellectual status’, was, in Revd Waaka's opinion, the main reason why it was such a success. Eddie Durie has written a most interesting report on his impressions of the Consultation. We quote his conclusion:—‘… I was grateful for this opportunity to see something of Asia, for I believe that New Zealand has soon to make a serious reappraisal of its involvement in this part of the world. Geographically we are part of Asia and the Pacific, but traditionally our ties have been with Britain. Perhaps for this reason. New Zealand's participation in Asian affairs seems to have been limited and uncertain. ‘It has seemed to me that New Zealand's political participation in Asia is still confused with the thought to protect our own shores, both by direct military contribution to the field and by alliances on the idea of collective security. Even our economic assistance at Government level is sometimes seen in the context that a military presence is insufficient to contain an Asian problem. ‘This does not strike me as an adequate basis for New Zealand's fuller participation in South East Asia. It is not sufficient that we should appear as benevolent or even mildly patronising. It is worse that our interests in Asia might be interpreted solely in terms of safeguarding our own security, or more lately, of boosting our own economy. Still, it is likely that we will become increasingly involved in Asia, not only because of withdrawal of British forces, but more especially because of our need to examine the Asian trade potential. ‘Following the Consultation, I am convinced that, to be honest, New Zealand's increased involvement in Asia must be accompanied by the creation of a feeling of common interest or bond, that in itself creates a regional consciousness. Such a role can be effective only if the present military or political drive as well as any programme for economic assistance, is accompanied by a planned programme for cultural exchange and meetings for the exchange of ideas. For me as a New Zealander. this was one of the major by-products of the Consultation, it giving an opportunity for the sharing of ideas by personal encounter. I am sure that real understanding will not come from the conference table of the political mission, but from opportunities for related and honest dialogue between ordinary people. It has been encouraging to note that the National Council of Churches has taken a lead here.’