S. Rajapaksa: Address to World Summit 2022, Session VII
Written by Mdm. Shiranthi Rajapaksa, first lady of Sri Lanka (2005-2015)
Saturday, February 12, 2022
Address to World Summit
February 11-13, 2022
Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation,
Distinguished first ladies and former first ladies of states,
Distinguished delegates and guests,
Thank you for the introduction and for inviting me to share some of my thoughts on world peace at a time when it is most compromised. In spite of all the challenges faced by humanity, I am hopeful for the future and strongly believe that we will prevail as a result of the commitment of organizations such as the United Peace Federation (UPF). Hence, it is an immense pleasure and honor to have the opportunity to address you today.
UPF is a global network of individuals and organizations dedicated to building a world of peace in which everyone can live in freedom, experiencing harmony, cooperation and prosperity. Universal peace is an idea of tolerance that does not discriminate between people of different religions. Instead, it focuses on a system of ethics—peace, honesty, justice—that is universally applicable.
World peace is an idea of a world without violence where nations try to work with each other in peace and harmony.
UPF’s programs and initiatives have made significant strides to promote peace in the Korean Peninsula through multiple aspects, such as the empowerment of women, recognizing the role of religion and culture, and developing the next generation of leaders who will advocate for peace.
World peace is the concept of an ideal state of happiness, freedom and peace within and among all people and nations. It also contributes and has contributed to the reduction of conflicts and war. Conflicts between countries and nations can be reduced if world peace existed. Economic developments, human developments and the global peacemaking system have all manifestly contributed to peace. Peace is the path we take for bringing growth and prosperity to society. Achieving political strength, economic stability and cultural growth will be impossible if peace and harmony does not exist or is properly established.
Furthermore, there has been an emphasis on the activities used for peacebuilding to be coherent and tailored to the specific needs of the country or countries concerned. This implies that the path to lasting peace needs to be carefully planned and strategized with a holistic approach. We do not presume to know each person’s struggles, but we can offer our heartfelt compassion and willingness to move forward together, side-by-side as brothers and sisters in our pursuit for peace. Last but not least, I would like to emphasize once more that the pursuit of peace in the Korean Peninsula is a life changing one for everyone within and outside its borders.
May this World Summit 2022 continue to pave the way for us as we listen, learn, think, plan and act. Together, let us continue to press onwards to a brighter, peaceful future. As I conclude my short address, I salute each and every one of you here who have dedicated your life, time and talents to aid humanity find peace and the betterment of humanity.
Thank you.
To go to the World Summit 2022 Schedule page, click here.