The International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) has marked this year’s International Day of Peace in Abuja with the call on the international community to embrace peace.
OIF drives Francophone multilateral cooperation with 88 member states and governments (54 full members, 7 associate members and 27 observer members).
The International Day of Peace tagged “Peace Day” is observed around the world each year on 21st September. Established in 1981 by unanimous United Nations resolution, Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace. This year’s theme is “Let us Develop a Culture of Peace”.
Speaking at the event, the representative of OIF, Madame Tran Thi Hoang Mai, said every human irrespective of colour and beliefs must embrace peace and make the world a better place to live.
“Peace is in the heart of all and we must all promote it and live as one. Our gathering here is to promote trees,” she said.
The Ambassador of Bulgaria to Nigeria, His Excellency Yanko Yordanov, who spoke on behalf of the ambassadors that witnessed the event, said sharing and preaching of peace as part of universal values will further unite the world.
He said the francophone countries see Nigeria as one of its natural partners and will continue to use diplomacy, dialogue and collaboration as tools to promote peaceful coexistence across the globe.
“This year, all these activities coincide with the launch of the United Nations Summit for Future which aims to renew the efforts around the world to achieve Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Peace is more than a noble vision for humanity; it’s first and foremost, a call to concrete action.
“And we are proud to be Francophone because the search for peace, peace-building and peace-consolidation are at the heart of the political project of the Francophone. Faced with the growing challenges to peace, we, the, Francophone act using the tools known to be the most sustainable for centuries – diplomacy, dialogue and collaboration. Nigeria is undoubtedly one of our natural partners and the sharing of universal values unite us more and more effectively.
“To overcome the obstacles that stand in our way of peace, today more than ever, we must first make peace with Mother Nature to heal our planet and build a greener economy. Let us sow the seeds of hope and plant the trees of peace because peace is a light in the darkness which guides us on the only path that will lead us to a better future for humanity,” the Bulgarian envoy stated.
The host of the event, Dr Dele Babade, in his remarks, said the world need the tripod stand of peace, love, and unity which he described are essential in building blocks of a strong community. He however said in the absence of the basic principles, it will be very difficult to find structure and harmony.
“We sincerely appreciate and together we can all partner to promote a legacy of peace. The International Peace Day reminds us of the importance of peace and harmony in our world today. We are reminded of the need for peace, understanding and progression among nations, communities, families and individuals.
“We all have the opportunity to initiate and maintain peace in the world. A lot has been said today to nurture and promote peace. The United Nations play a huge role in the promotion of peace through conflict resolution and peace building. Our holy books taught us about peace but looking around the world you see conflicts, violence and so on,” Babade said.
The ambassadors who were at the event included that of Cameroon, Burundi, Bulgaria, Rwanda, Vietnam, Congo DR, Belgium, Tunisia, Mexico and Guinea Bissau. Others are Slovakia, Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea, Libya, Benin Republic, France and Equatorial Guinea..
The highlight of the event was the planting of trees and the release of pigeons to the air as symbol of peace.
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