The Words of the Marion Family
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The Words of the Marion Family |
Moscow, Russia -- In November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared July 18 as Nelson Mandela International Day in acknowledgment of the former South Africa President's impact on establishing peace and freedom. UPF-Russia would like to express its gratitude to the UN Information Center in Moscow and to the Republic of South Africa's Embassy to the Russian Federation for the invitation to participate in a round-table forum at the State Library of Russia on that day.
Mr. Jacques Marion, Secretary General of UPF-Eurasia, in his address to participants in the round table delivered by Dmitry Samko, Secretary General of UPF-Moscow, emphasized that "the reason Nelson Mandela became one of the greatest world leaders was his strong desire for peace beyond personal emotions and interests. He reached the position of national leader after having overcome years of difficulties, tribulations, and persecution. Nevertheless, despite the temptation to take revenge, he could find in his heart the potential to surmount historical grudges and open the way to recovery and reconciliation."
About ten Ambassadors for Peace enthusiastically attended the celebration in honor of the former South African president, who turned 94 on July 18 this year.
Nelson Mandela International Day seeks to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better, and in doing so build a global movement for good. It honors his work in resolving conflicts, promoting human rights, international democracy and reconciliation, and addressing racial issues