Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said each individual is responsible for the realization of durable peace and its lasting benefits, in his address at a ceremony held to commemorate International Day of Peace, held at the National Park.
International Day of Peace is officially being observed today.
A press release from the Government Information Agency (GINA) said Saturday’s ceremony was held under the theme ‘Youths for peace and development’ by the Guyana Justices of Peace and Commissioners Association.
According to GINA, Hinds said that peace fosters development and helps youths to realize their full potential. “It also underscores the important contribution healthy, educated youth can make towards achieving the international goals of sustainable development and the successful realization of the millennium development goals,” he added.
The Prime Minster said too the administration has confidence in the United Nations (UN) as it remains committed to its central role of maintaining and preserving international peace and security. He said Guyana appreciates all it has gained from the UN, particularly under the leadership of Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. Hinds then challenged the gathering to work towards strengthening efforts towards the promotion of peace, which depends on each individual denouncing all acts or violence or acts that perpetuate violence and conflict. He then encouraged the public to join endeavours aimed at building peaceful communities for the sustained development of the nation.
President of the JP Association Pandit Chrishna Persaud added that there are several ways of achieving peace including advocacy, petitions and humanitarianism.
In addition, social scientist Dr Michael Scott noted that messages and acts of peace are too few and that individuals must be at peace with themselves before they can be at peace with others. He added that all Guyanese should commit to promoting peace at all levels.
