Washington, DC, USA - The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) International, partnering with UPF-USA, and the Embassy of Liberia, presented a moving program on September 23 entitled, “Building a Culture of Peace in the 21st Century.” Sir James Mancham, founding president of the Republic of Seychelles, was the keynote speaker.
With an international reputation as an advocate for reconciliation and peacemaking, Sir James provided his perspective on the quest for peace in our world – emphasizing the need for leaders who are capable of statesmanship to replace those who are merely politicians. He also stressed the need for all who are striving to improve the world to seek an inner peace
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David Smith, Deputy Director of the UN Information Center, DC office, greeted the audience and delivered the Secretary General’s remarks for the International Day of Peace 2009 with his added commentary.
Sir James is currently traveling with a global book signing tour for his autobiography, Seychelles Global Citizen and fortunately was in Washington DC and available to speak at the program. Until the very end of the evening, many guests used the opportunity to introduce themselves to Sir James, personally talk with him and get his autograph on his book.
During his time in the US capital, Sir James did an interview with Voice of America television. Grover Norquist also hosted him at his home for a question and answer session and book signing. Sir James spoke about US foreign policy and the strategic importance of the Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean.