After completion of his fruitful four days visit at the invitation of the Government to Himalayan country Nepal the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) Antonio Guterres left for his office headquarters in New York Wednesday morning.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Purna Bahadur Khadka bade farewell to the UN Chief Guterres at the Tribhuvan International Airport before boarding a Qatar Airways flight, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During his official trip days in Nepal, he had discussed various national, international and UN related issues with various high level dignitaries of Nepalese government including President Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, as well as leaders of political parties, ministers.
Besides his official diplomatic engagements, the UN Chief also experienced Annapurna Base Camp, Pokhara, and Lumbini where he delivered his message saying “It is an honor to be here in Lumbini – a site of spirituality, serenity, and peace,” Mr. Guterres said, adding “I am deeply moved to have been invited to pay tribute to Lord Buddha.”
Guterres urged everyone to reflect on the core teachings of Buddhism and their relevance in today’s world which is witnessing conflicts in the Middle East to Ukraine, and the Sahel to Sudan.
The Secretary-General also expressed concern over the record number of people driven from their homes by violence, conflict, and persecution, as well as the persistent challenges of poverty and inequality, and worsening impacts of the climate crises.
Emphasizing the Lord Buddha’s message of compassion, non-violence, and interdependence as an inspiration for all and source of unity Guterres stressed peace is more than a noble vision; it is a rallying cry. “Thus, from these sacred gardens, I call on the world to act now for peace,” Mr. Guterres voiced.
The Secretary-General on Tuesday also addressed a joint session of the Nepalese Parliament, where he lauded Nepal’s contributions to UN peacekeeping operations globally.
The UN chief also recognized climate change challenges, multilateralism and technology and digital inclusion adding Nepalese-led peace process to heal the wounds of war through transitional justice, UN stands ready to support the victim-centred process and its implementation in line with international standards and Supreme Court’s rulings.
