Excellency Ms. Suchitra Durai, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand,
Excellency Mr. Chirayu Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, Privy Councillor, Kingdom of Thailand,
Excellencies, Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Very good morning, Sawasdee kha.
Welcome to the Observance of the International Day of Non-Violence.
As the United Nations commemorates the seventy-fifth anniversary, the message of non-violence must continue to underpin and shape our efforts to foster regional cooperation and sustainable development journey in Asia and the Pacific.
Rising levels of poverty, entrenched inequality and climate change impacts are putting enormous pressures on our societies, threatening the very fabric of social and economic cohesion.
Today, with further unfolding of the socio-economic impacts from COVID-19, Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and call for cooperation, equality and protection for all communities remain universally relevant.
Together, we can address these emerging development challenges, and identify opportunities to draw on lessons from his life and works.
The promotion of equality, without discrimination and prejudice, is fundamental to the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. A commitment to socio-economic inclusion has shaped member States’ pledge to leave no one behind and the recognition that the promotion of dignity and equal opportunities for all are the enduring principles of the UN Charter for everyone, everywhere.
Our commitment to compassion, to religious tolerance, to right to freedom of opinion and expression – remain ever important to all of us who believe in a more inclusive, sustainable, and integrated Asia-Pacific region.
The message of peace can strengthen the spirit of mutual trust, cooperation, and solidarity. The dedication to public service is key to inspire citizens at all levels – local, national, regional and international.
Guided by the principles of the UN Charter, ESCAP along with the UN family, remain committed to working with member States and all stakeholders to harness the power of inclusive multilateralism in Asia and the Pacific.
Thank you for your attention.
