Mizo, Manipuri and Chin scholars are in agreement that despite living in different countries, Chins, Mizos, Kukis and Zos are brethren and share the same lineage.

The scholars discussed issues and explored the history, culture and identity of the Chins at an international seminar held in Mizoram University in Aizawl, capital of Mizoram state in northeast India from October 13 to 15.

"The seminar was held for people to understand more about our history and background. Only after we properly understand our history can we make the right decisions in dealing with the current situation," said Dr. Lian H. Sakhong.

 "Having a proper understanding of our history and applying the right approach to the current situation is vital in shaping our future," he added.

Dr. Lian H. Sakhong further said that during the three-day seminar, all participants had accepted the fact that Zo or Chin or Kuki or Mizo, whatever name is used "we are all brethren but live in different countries because of historical changes". 

Dr. F K Lehman, the author of the first Chin historical book called "The structure of Chin State" was also present at the seminar.

The seminar was organized by the Department of History Ethnography, Mizoram University and sponsored by The Euro Burma Office Brussels in Belgium.

The so called Chin, Mizo, Kuki and Zo inhabited land existed in India, Burma and Bangladesh. These were independent territories from time immemorial. The land was also out of the jurisdiction of neighbouring kingdoms known as India and Burma.

But the territories were divided into three parts by the British after it colonized the region in the late 19th century.

Chins, Mizos, Kukis and Zos share the same culture, custom, language and history.