‘Intercultural Dialogue for Peace held at UN Headquarters to foster tolerance

Approximately 100 representative officials to the United Nations of the respective countries including Canada, Austria, Colombia, the Republic of Senegal, and the State of Qatar gathered to hold a dialogue on the agenda of peace and development at UN Headquarters in New York on May 31st.

Organized as a collective effort of the diverse sectors of the global society in commemoration of ‘2018 World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development’, the event was attended by heads of the social organizations, religious leaders, women groups, youth, and media.

This conference aimed to reinforce international cooperation to ensure intercultural dialogue as a foundation for the effective exercise of universal human rights, responding to the necessity of the measure for integrating cultural diversity into development frameworks and policies.

By sharing experiences to promote cultural diversity and its potential, H.E. Mr. Francisco Alberto Gonzalez of Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of Colombia stated, “My countries have gone through one of the longest armed conflicts in our hemisphere. Two Colombias, one with a strong state presence, and another with a series of inequalities and no opportunities. That is why recognizing our opportunities and dialogues are needed. We, a very diverse country, know by experience that disarmament is not enough to create peace. We must not underestimate the need for peace and stable development.”

“Intercultural dialogue is necessary to bring peace and development. Media and education programs can effect to develop intercultural dialogue. I would also like to highlight the role of religious and political leaders to make the positive influences and exchange whatever is good for humankind.” said H.E. Mr. Jan Kickert, Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of Austria.

Attended as a special invitee, Chairman Man Hee Lee of HWPL, an international peace NGO, urged for the cooperation and support of the officials of the UN in ensuring sustainable peace through the implementation of the international law for peace.

He said: “I’ve visited all around the world and had a number of agreements with the former and current presidents, the chief justices, and members of the National Assembly to end the war together. All leaders in each country should sign the agreement for the international law to achieve peace if they love the country and the people. To do this, the United Nations must work together to accomplish the task of peace with its spirit of peace at its inception.”

HWPL meaning ‘Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light’ has initiated projects in 120 countries for conflict resolution and peacebuilding, which includes promotion of the international law for peace, interfaith dialogues, youth empowerment, and peace education.

Also, HWPL has carried out its “Legislate Peace Campaign” to raise awareness of peace to students and citizens over 170 countries around the world.

UM– USEKE.RW