Commemorations in Sudan
In an unprecedented event in Darfur, the UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) and the Government of North Darfur celebrated the International Day of Peace 2007 together. Government officials, representatives of civil society, political parties, the Faculty of El Fasher University and Unions of Women, Labor, as well as students and youths participated at the events with the UN, the first public event held by the UN and Government of North Darfur together.
The ceremony included speeches by Deputy Wali Issa Bahreddine, Chairman of Peace and Reconciliation at the Legislative Council, Deputy Head of Mission of the African Union, Ambassador Hassan Jibril, and an introduction by the UNMIS Officer in Charge in El Fasher, Miguel Martin. The message from the UN Secretary-General was also read in Arabic.
The Deputy Wali stressed in his speech the appreciation of the government of North Darfur for the UNMIS initiative to observe this day in Darfur adding, “What makes it even better is that it is celebrated at the hall of the State’s Legislative Council.” He called for more of these initiatives that reflect the resolve of the people for peace.
The Chairman of the Peace and Reconciliation Committee of the Legislative Council expressed the Council’s wish for peace to prevail and guns to be silenced.
The Women’s Union representative said that the time had come for the women and children of Darfur to enjoy a peaceful life full of hope and aspirations. She expressed hope that the upcoming peace talks in Tripoli meeting would bring lasting peace.
Ambassador Hassan Jibril stressed the significance of the future partnership of the African Union and the UN, saying that the hybrid operation would be the largest mission ever in the history of the UN.
Miguel Martin introduced the message of the Secretary-General by saying that the International Day of Peace aims to synthesize efforts to end violence and armed conflict worldwide.
Ceremonies in the morning and evening included music and songs performed by a local band representing the cultural heritage of Darfur, whose newly released tape on “Peace for Darfur” is heard around the country. One minute of silence was also observed.
United Nations Mission in Sudan