Latest news with #UnitedNationsHeadquarters
See - Sada Elbalad
6 days ago
- General
- See - Sada Elbalad
Int'l Day of UN Peacekeepers: 2 Egyptians Honoured Posthumously for Sacrifice
Ahmed Emam The United Nations Headquarters will observe the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on Thursday, 29 May 2025. In 1948, the historic decision was made to deploy military observers to the Middle East to supervise the implementation of Israel-Arab Armistice Agreements, in what became the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization. Since that time, more than two million peacekeepers have served in 71 operations around the world. Today, some 68,000 women and men serve as military, police and civilian personnel in 11 conflict zones across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. 119 countries currently contribute uniformed personnel. Egypt is the 13th largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping. It currently deploys more than 1,200 military and police personnel to the UN peace operations in Abyei, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan and the Western Sahara. During ceremonies at United Nations Headquarters, Secretary-General, António Guterres, will lay a wreath to honour the more than 4,400 UN peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948. He will also preside over a ceremony in the Trusteeship Council Chamber, at which Dag Hammarskjöld Medals will be awarded posthumously to 57 military, police, and civilian peacekeepers, who lost their lives serving under the UN flag last year. Among the peacekeepers to be honoured posthumously with the Dag Hammarskjold medal are two from Egypt: WO Abdelkawy Mohamed Abdelkawy Sourour who served with the UN Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO); and Mr. Moataz Ibrahim Abdelsalam Abdelhamid who served in a civilian capacity with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The Secretary-General will also present awards to the 2024 Military Gender Advocate of the Year, Squadron Leader Sharon Mwinsote Syme from Ghana and the UN Woman Police Officer of the Year award to Superintendent Zainab Gbla of Sierra Leone. Both of them serve with the United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA). This year's theme for the Day is 'the Future of Peacekeeping'. The theme emphasizes that the 'Pact for the Future' – adopted last year at the United Nations – includes a commitment to adapt peacekeeping to our changing world, as expressed Member States' pledges presented to fill capability gaps and help adapt UN peacekeeping to emerging challenges and new realities at the recent Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin. In his message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said: 'Today, peacekeepers face increasingly complex situations in an increasingly complex world... Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations -- and the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today's realities and tomorrow's challenges.' 'Today, we honour their service,' Mr. Guterres stated. 'We draw inspiration from their resilience, dedication and courage. And we remember all the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace. We will never forget them – and we will carry their work forward.' 'Our personnel are our most important capability. The sacrifices made by our peacekeepers call for more than remembrance; they demand action,' said Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations. 'Throughout its history, peacekeeping has always adapted to ever-changing contexts to achieve results. The future of peacekeeping hinges on our collective commitment to continue to adapt and invest—so we can continue delivering hope and protection where it's needed most,' he added. The International Day of UN Peacekeepers was established by the UN General Assembly in 2002, to pay tribute to all men and women serving in peacekeeping, and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
IOL News
05-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Xi Jinping: A visionary architect of world peace and development
Chinese President Xi Jinping watches the military parade during the commemoration activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, capital of China, September 3, 2015. Image: Xinhua / Lan Hongguang By Xinhua writer He Fei In the stately Conference Building at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, a 65-inch-tall resplendent bronze vessel gleams under soft light, its cloisonne enamel blazing in vibrant Chinese red. The "Zun of Peace," presented by Chinese President Xi Jinping in September 2015 as a special gift for the United Nations' 70th anniversary, is not merely a delicate artefact. It embodies the aspiration and conviction of the Chinese people to seek peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes, Xi said at its unveiling. A decade later, as the top Chinese leader travels to Moscow to celebrate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War, his presence both carries the weight of history and reaffirms a vision of the future. Leading a nation always aspiring for peace and harmony in its long history and further strengthened by its battles against militarism, imperialism and fascism in its recent past, Xi commands a unique insight into the value of peace, and has steadfastly championed the building of a peaceful world, a cause of great urgency given the tensions and conflicts on the global landscape today. Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) attends a presentation ceremony on which the Chinese government gives the "Zun of Peace" to the United Nations as a gift in New York, the United States, September 27, 2015. Image: Xinhua / Li Tao ASPIRATION FOR PEACE Xi sees history as a mirror from which humanity should draw lessons to avoid repeating past calamities. This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in what is commonly known in China as the World Anti-Fascist War or, more globally, as World War II. Almost every part of the world was involved, and more than 100 million were killed or wounded in what was described as the most destructive conflict in human history. The bravery and tremendous sacrifice of the Chinese people played a decisive role in defeating Fascist Japan and offered strategic support to the Allies on the European and Pacific battlefields. "History has told us to stay on high alert against war, which, like a demon and nightmare, would bring disaster and pain to the people," Xi once said. "History has also told us to preserve peace with great care, as peace, like air and sunshine, is hardly noticed when people are benefiting from it, but none of us can live without it." This historical observation features prominently in Xi's unrelenting pursuit of peace. He has repeatedly reiterated China's commitment to peaceful development, pledging that China will never seek hegemony, expansion or any sphere of influence, no matter how strong it may grow. During a 2014 visit to France, Xi reshaped Napoleon's metaphor of China as a "sleeping lion" that would shake the world upon awakening. "Now China the lion has awakened. But it is a peaceful, amicable and civilised lion," Xi said when illustrating the peaceful dimension of the Chinese Dream. Xi's philosophy stems from the millennia-old Chinese culture. An avid reader of traditional Chinese classics, he once expounded how ancient Chinese wisdom views war and peace by quoting "The Art of War," a Chinese classic written more than 2,000 years ago. The book's key message "is that every effort should be made to prevent a war and great caution must be exercised when it comes to fighting a war," Xi said when delivering a keynote speech in the UN Office at Geneva in 2017. Xi's view on prudence in warfare is also reflected in his exchanges with foreign leaders and officials. "It has long been known that the real experts on military affairs do not want to employ military means to solve issues," he quoted a Chinese aphorism when meeting with then US Secretary of Defense James Mattis in Beijing in 2018. Chinese President Xi Jinping straightens the ribbon on a flower basket during a ceremony to present flower baskets to fallen heroes at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, September 30, 2024. Image: Xinhua / Wang Ye A clear manifestation of Xi's reflection is to cherish history and honor heroes. "A nation of hope cannot be without heroes," Xi once said. Every year since 2014, Xi has paid tribute to China's fallen heroes on Martyrs' Day, which falls on Sept. 30, a day ahead of the country's National Day. In 2015, when China celebrated the 70th anniversary of its victory in World War II, Xi presented medals to Chinese veterans and representatives from Russia and other countries who assisted Chinese soldiers on the battlefields. Nikolai Chuikov, the grandson of Soviet General Marshal Vasily Chuikov, was among those who received a peace medal from Xi. "Of all the honours I have won, I hold the highest regard for the peace medal," he said. Chinese President Xi Jinping (R, front) shakes hands with a Russian veteran in Moscow, Russia, on May 8, 2015. Image: Xinhua / Zhang Duo TORCH OF MULTILATERALISM Under Xi's leadership, China has adhered to an independent foreign policy of peace, played an active role in UN peacekeeping missions, and solidified its friendships and partnerships with countries worldwide. As hegemonism and protectionism once again rear their ugly heads, the world is gripped by an increasingly intricate array of challenges and uncertainties. In Xi's eyes, the only way out is to practice true multilateralism. He once compared multilateralism to a torch that can light up humanity's way forward. The Chinese president has consistently urged the international community to safeguard the UN-centered international system forged in the aftermath of World War II and anchored by international law. "We must promote multilateralism, the core essence of which is that international affairs should be decided through consultation among all countries, rather than by one country or a few countries," he said. This photo taken on January 2, 2025 shows the 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy during a counter-terrorism and anti-piracy exercise. The fleet traveled over 160,000 nautical miles during its 339-day voyage, escorting ships during missions in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. Image: Xinhua / Zhang Dayu Xi, a staunch champion of true multilateralism, has guided China over the years in taking a proactive and constructive role in addressing regional and global hot-button issues. To end the Ukraine crisis at an early date, Xi has put forward a four-point proposal, emphasising that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected; the purposes and principles of the UN Charter observed; the legitimate security concerns of all countries given due regard; and all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis supported. Under Xi's leadership, China has conducted shuttle diplomacy and mediation efforts to promote peace talks and initiated the "Friends of Peace" group with Brazil and other Global South countries on the Ukraine crisis at the United Nations. Regarding the Middle East, the Chinese president has promoted peace and stability in the volatile region. With China's mediation, Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed in March 2023 to restore diplomatic relations after a seven-year hiatus. In the lead-up to the negotiations, Xi talked separately with the leaders of both countries. During a phone call with Xi soon after the breakthrough was achieved, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud applauded China's increasingly important and constructive role in regional and international affairs. In face of the gathering gloom of conflict on the horizon, Xi has championed a transformative approach to collective security. In May 2014, he articulated a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security for Asia. Eight years later, he presented the Global Security Initiative to the world. "We, as humanity, are living in an indivisible security community," he said, advocating dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win outcomes over zero-sum approaches. 'GOLDEN KEY' OF DEVELOPMENT Lasting world peace remains one of humanity's greatest aspirations. For Xi, peace and development are inseparable. He once observed that the tree of peace does not grow on barren land, and the fruit of development is not produced amid flames of war. In view of the interlocked relations, Xi insists that the "golden key" to a secure and stable future is to advance sustainable development. Since assuming China's presidency, Xi has positioned development as a pillar of his vision of building a better future for humankind. The initiatives he has proposed in this regard, notably the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, serve as bridges to foster common development through broader collaboration. China has provided development aid to over 160 countries, and Belt and Road cooperation has involved more than 150 countries. Under the Global Development Initiative, China has mobilised nearly 20 billion US dollars of development funds and launched more than 1,100 projects, fuelling growth and modernisation drives in many countries, particularly developing ones. An aerial drone photo taken on March 4, 2024 shows trains running on the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line in Lagos, Nigeria. Undertaken by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation in July 2010 and completed in Dec. 2022, the first phase of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line corridor spans 13 km and covers five stations. Image: Xinhua / Han Xu "China is sharing its development experience with other countries through its development initiatives, which have helped to promote common development," said Straton Habyarimana, a Rwandan economic analyst. "Since these initiatives are people-centred, they address key challenges such as food insecurity and poverty" and have helped ease tensions among countries, he added. UPDATE OF WORLD ORDER Nestled by the Huangpu River in Shanghai, the New Development Bank was founded by five BRICS countries in 2014 to provide financing support for member countries to bolster transport infrastructure, clean energy and digital infrastructure. When Xi visited the bank a few days ago, he saw more than a mere financial institution. He described it as a "pioneering initiative for the unity and self-improvement of the Global South," underscoring an enduring commitment to building a more just and equitable international order. This aerial photo taken on June 17, 2022 shows the headquarters building of the New Development Bank in east China's Shanghai. Image: Xinhua / Fang Zhe BRICS countries stand at the forefront of the Global South. Xi has personally pushed for the BRICS' historic expansion in 2023 to create stronger unity among the Global South. The expansion, he said, would further strengthen the forces for world peace and development. Developing countries remain underrepresented in the global governance system, which the West has long dominated. China maintains that only when the rise of emerging markets and developing countries is reflected in the global governance system will global development be more balanced and global peace more firmly based. During the 2022 Group of 20 Summit in Bali, Indonesia, Xi vocally supported the African Union in joining the leading multilateral mechanism, making China the earliest and most vocal champion for amplifying Africa's voice in global governance. Chinese President Xi Jinping walks to the venue of the 17th summit of the Group of 20 in Bali, Indonesia, November 15, 2022. Image: Xinhua / Ju Peng In recent years, Xi has proposed the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative as key global public goods to create a more just and equitable global governance system. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who received the "Zun of Peace" from the Chinese president on behalf of the United Nations 10 years ago, said China's initiatives to promote global peace and development are inseparable from Xi's foresight. "China is playing an increasingly important role on the world stage, and Xi has demonstrated proactive and crucial leadership," Ban said. "He always believes that China can only do well when the world is doing well, and when China does well, the world will get even better." In Xi's own words, "every increase of China's strength is an increase of the prospects of world peace."
Free Malaysia Today
05-05-2025
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
Building a generation of future-ready diplomats
Taylor's University's second-year student Mariyam Zihnee Rasheed at the United Nations Headquarters during the prestigious CWMUN 2025 in New York City. (Taylor's University pic) PETALING JAYA : Taylor's University's Mariyam Zihnee Rasheed was able to achieve an early milestone in her journey in international diplomacy when she was handpicked to represent the Maldives at the prestigious Change the World Model United Nations (CWMUN) 2025 in New York City. Mariyam is a second-year student of the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations at Taylor's University. 'Out of 150,000 global applicants, only 5% were chosen. Mariyam's achievement reflects both her talent and the environment we foster at Taylor's,' remarked Dr Andrea Passeri, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations at Taylor's University. Mariyam set her sights on global diplomacy after careful research, which led her to Taylor's. Drawn by its strong diplomacy curriculum and vibrant campus life, she found the perfect fit for her dream of becoming a diplomat. Mariyam also said that being a part of Taylor's International Relations Society discussions on US politics helped broaden her global perspectives on the issue of international diplomacy. Learning through industry experiences 'Taylor's has been a big part of my journey to CWMUN,' Mariyam said, adding that the highlight for her was the UN Security Council simulation, which helped sharpen her public speaking skills besides providing her with much-needed practical experience. She credited industry insights for bridging the gap between textbook learning and real-world experience. 'Learning from experts, along with Taylor's structured approach for exams, simulations, and projects, gave me real insights into international diplomacy,' Mariyam shared. Mariyam (third from right) with her fellow course mates at the AYEA Conference 2024 in Jakarta, where they collaborated with global leaders on pressing environmental and sustainability issues. (Taylor's University pic) This strong foundation led Mariyam to the ASEAN+ Youth Environmental Action (AYEA) Conference 2024 in Jakarta, where she engaged with world leaders, participated in sustainability dialogues, and gained hands-on diplomatic experience. 'It's also one of my most memorable experiences at Taylor's,' Mariyam said. Real-world learning, global impact Taylor's University offers Southeast Asia's first Work-Based Learning (WBL) International Relations programme, blending theory with hands-on experience on global issues and foreign policy. A key highlight of the WBL model is that in the third year, students lead impactful projects that go beyond traditional internships. 'It boosts career readiness and employability, proven by the success of our graduates since 2021,' said Passeri. Taylor's collaborates with organisations such as the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) and Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) to strengthen real-world learning, giving students firsthand experience in policy design and community engagement. 'We're growing our network with more diplomatic and policy institutions to give students a truly global learning experience,' Passeri said. Dr Andrea Passeri, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations at Taylor's University. (Taylor's University pic) The programme will be introducing the 'Distinguished Diplomat Series', a platform for candid, face-to-face conversations with top diplomats and experts in international relations. Hosted by Malaysian diplomat Dr ilango Karuppannan, the series gives students rare insights into real-world diplomacy and pressing global issues. Shaping future diplomats With its forward-thinking curriculum and real-world experiences, Taylor's University is shaping the next generation of diplomats and leaders. 'Mariyam is just one example – our recent graduates are already making their mark in the Malaysian Parliament, regional non-governmental organisations, and global companies,' Passeri added. To learn more about Taylor's University's Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations programme and how it can help you achieve your aspirations, visit Taylor's University website.
Forbes
03-05-2025
- Science
- Forbes
Climate Wins Are Happening, And Young Creatives Are Leading Them
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 24: Aurélie Fontan, and Moemen Sobh (2nd and 3rd from right) join ... More colleagues Mangesh Kurund, Barimah Asare, Blossom Eromosele, and Azra Firmansyah at the Swarovski Foundation Creatives For Our Future 2025. The event was held at United Nations Headquarters in New York City. (Photo byfor Swarovski) In a time of shifting political winds, rising sea levels and climate anxiety at all-time highs, it's easy to miss the green sparks of innovation and hope growing from the margins. But if you look closely—especially at the work of young creatives—you'll find solutions quietly reshaping how we think about sustainability. They are coming from places as far flung as Egypt and the United Kingdom. Moemen Sobh, an Egyptian architect and designer, is one of them. His social enterprise, Visenleer, transforms ocean waste—specifically fish skin and discarded fishing gear—into durable textiles without the use of synthetic chemicals, machines, or water. This project did not begin in a lab. It was born from experiencing climate change related loss in his community. 'Twenty-five thousand fishermen lost their jobs in my hometown, including my parents,' Sobh said as he explained the unique music, art and fishing culture in this part of Egypt. 'It was devastating. But instead of letting that legacy die, I went to the docks with a notebook, a camera, and a question: what could we do with this waste?' Working and thinking for more than four months, Moemen observed not only the ecological damage of discarded fish waste—much of which was being returned to the sea in plastic bags—but also its potential to become something new. Despite plenty of skepticism, olfactory discomfort and advice against the plan, he began collecting fish skins to test tanning methods that avoided pollution. 'We only use air drying, jasmine extracts, and natural pigments like curry and hibiscus. The result is a zero-carbon, zero-waste material that tells the story of the sea and the people who depend on it.' Visenleer Bag, constructed from fishing waste Visenleer's innovation is not just technical; it's social. The enterprise trains local fishermen and their families—including fisherwomen, whose roles have been largely erased by modern norms—in leather tanning, sewing, and sustainable fishing practices. The fish waste is now a source of income, education, and dignity. 'Every product we make comes with the story of who worked on it, the fish it came from, and the community it supports,' he says. 'It's fashion with memory.' Sobh's approach is a compelling example of circular economy thinking rooted in justice and heritage. Visenleer also invests in ecosystem restoration through seaweed cultivation and school-based entrepreneurship programs that challenge students to design community-driven solutions. Across the Mediterranean, another creative is taking on fashion's toxicity from the soil up. Aurélie Fontan, a Paris-born, London-based fashion designer and biodesigner, is the founder of Regen Ink, an innovative initiative that uses phytoremediation—plants that clean polluted soil—to extract natural pigments for textile dyes. The result: no synthetic dyes, no heavy metals, and no need for virgin land. Fontan's work addresses one of the most overlooked issues in fashion: industrial water pollution. According to the European Parliament, the fashion industry is responsible for 20% of global industrial water contamination, largely due to toxic dyes and runoff from textile production. 'As a young designer, I want to be part of the generation that reduces this,' Fontan said. 'We're not just eliminating harmful chemicals—we're using plants to heal land and produce safe, regenerative color.' Regen Ink's process uses plants like nettle and lavender to draw heavy metals from soil in former mining regions. Those metals are then used in dye processes, essentially closing the loop on pollution. 'We're targeting places that can't grow food or house people and transforming them into productive, biodiverse ecosystems. It's about making damaged places viable again—environmentally and economically.' The model offers a dual win: environmental regeneration and job creation. In mining communities across Cornwall and Yorkshire, Regen Ink is engaging farmers and landowners to grow dye plants and participate in soil restoration. 'We're restoring land and livelihoods,' Fontan explains. 'People often see these areas as lost. But they hold so much potential.' Fontan's scientific and design training converge in her identity as a biodesigner—someone who blends biology, sustainability, and creativity to shape the future of materials. 'We've been using synthetic dyes and fast fashion for just three generations,' she said. 'That means we can re-learn a better way. Fashion can be a driver of healing.' Container of Regen Ink for fabric printing The two are part of the latest cohort of Swarovski Foundation's Creatives for Our Future program, which supports emerging leaders committed to creative and transformative solutions to help both people and the planet. Fontan and Sobh are both scaling their efforts to reach broader markets and engage industry partners. Fontan is piloting print paste production to meet industry colorfastness standards, and Sobh plans to expand Visenleer into Southern Italy's fishing communities. If it so that young creatives drive innovation, these two and their colleagues are doing more than just developing new materials. They have a blueprint for how fashion can serve both planet and people. As Fontan put it: 'We don't need to exploit nature to innovate. Nature already knows how to clean up after us—we just need to work with it.' Sobh adds, 'Every bag we create carries the legacy of a community fighting for its future. That's the beauty of design—it gives us a way to remember who we are, and who we want to be.'
Jordan Times
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Syria war monitor says 11 civilians killed in security raids
Syrians gather outside the United Nations Headquarters as Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani raises the new Syrian flag during a flag raising ceremony in New York on April 25, 2025 (AFP photo) BEIRUT — A monitor of Syria's conflict said Friday that 11 civilians had been killed in security raids in the centre of the country over the past 24 hours. The killings follow a wave of sectarian bloodshed last month, the worst since Islamist-led forces overthrew longtime president Bashar Al Assad. "At least 11 civilians including university students were killed in Homs province over the past 24 hours after raids conducted by the security forces" and associated groups, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday, characterising the killings as "sectarian". The government of interim President Ahmed Al Sharaa accused Assad loyalists of sparking the violence by attacking security forces. Sharaa set up a one-month inquiry into the killings in mid-March, but the commission's deadline has since been extended by three months.
