In his message, the United Nations chief Ban Ki Moon urged all the warring parties around the world to lay their weapons and observe cease-fire to create space for lasting peace. “If, for one day, we can live in a world without aggression and hostility, we can imagine how much more is possible”, he added.
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The United Nations Association of New Zealand president, Graham Hassal said the focus of the forum is on how to achieve peace locally, so that we can achieve it globally. “This is fundamental to ushering in a life of dignity for all, where poverty is history and peace is paramount”.
As we mark this day, let there be peace. Fellow Messenger of Peace and cellist Yo-Yo Massachusetts performed for the students attending the conference.
The United Nations invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the Day, and to otherwise commemorate the Day through education and public awareness on issues related to peace. The first Peace Day was observed in September 1982.
To celebrate the worldwide Day of Peace, local organizers, activists, and leaders in Philadelphia, many of whom are interested in and engaged in anti-atrocity and genocide prevention work, are contributing to the 8 days of events making up Peace Day Philly 2015.
And in 2001, the General Assembly established 21 September as an annual day of non-violence and cease-fire.
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Global Peace Day is taking Twitter by storm.
