U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres participated in the Peace Bell Ceremony at the U.N. headquarters in New York on Friday. The ceremony, held annually in the Japanese gardens of the headquarters, precedes the International Day of Peace on September 21st.
Guterres rang the Peace Bell, which was donated by Chiyoji Nakagawa, a Japanese peace activist and former mayor of Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture. Nakagawa had served as a soldier during World War II and witnessed the devastating loss of lives in Burma (now Myanmar).
During his speech at the ceremony, Guterres expressed deep concern over ongoing conflicts around the world. He specifically mentioned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the violence in Gaza that has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread destruction.
Guterres emphasized the urgent need to foster a culture of peace globally. He called upon all individuals who advocate for peace and justice to unite behind this cause.
The Peace Bell Ceremony serves as a symbolic reminder of humanity’s collective responsibility to strive for a world free from wars and conflicts. As we approach International Day of Peace, it is crucial to reflect on these ideals and work towards their realization.
