The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

The International Day of Peace was observed in the country yesterday as elsewhere of the world with a call for commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.

It was first established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981 as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence.

On the occasion, Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed has reiterated the country's pledge to work for promotion of peace around the world and commitment to the UN efforts to foster global peace, progress and prosperity.

In a message on the eve of the day, he said Bangladesh has remained deeply committed to the values and principles of the UN system and has contributed to the realisation of the principles and purposes of UN to promote peace in the world.

Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed said only a global economic system with equitable opportunity for all the countries would reinforce Bangladesh efforts to make peace durable.

"Our participation in the peacekeeping missions and our contribution in the development agenda of the UN speak for our unflinching commitment to peace," he added.

Referring to food insecurity along with the extremely negative impacts of climate change and oil price hike worldwide, Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed said these are new challenges to stability, which is the precondition of peace and security.

He said without combating hunger, malnutrition, diseases, illiteracy, we cannot move forward in our quest for peace. That is where development and peace are inextricably interlinked, he added.

Different socio-cultural organisations have chalked out various programmes including rallies and seminars to mark the day.

Gan-Sohagi Memorial Trust Fund of Dhaka University (DU) organised a seminar titled 'sixteen Gan-Sohagi International day of peace lecture' at R C Mojumder Auditorium at the campus.

DU Vice Chancellor Professor SMA Faiz was the chief guest and Pro Vice Chancellor AFM Yusuf Haider was in the chair. Dean of the Faculty of Social Science Professor Harun-or-Rashid was the special guest.

Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh Bea M. ten Tusscher gave a lecture on 'War, Peace and Justice : Sharing International Experience from the Capital of International Justice, The Hague."

Prof Faiz said all nations have an obligation to contribute to promote peace security and a sustainable environment and fight against poverty, disease and hunger."

He said lasting and sustainable peace depends on the existence of legitimate national authorities, adequate security and equitable distribution of both benefits and burdens and the opportunity for ordinary people to take part in the political process.

After the lecture, a peace rally was brought out at the campus led by Prof Faiz and the Netherlands Ambassador.