Remarks by the President of the General Assembly,
Mr. Dennis Francis,
For the Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives during the Second World War
8 May 2024
[As Recorded – Video Message]
Seventy-nine years ago, the horrors and untold suffering visited upon humankind by the Second World War finally ended, unveiling a world forever transformed by a profound sense of loss, yet unparalleled triumph and courage to rebuild and to move forward in hope.
Today, we honor the sacrifices of the millions who perished and celebrate the valor of those who gallantly fought for peace.
As President of the General Assembly, I urge everyone to seriously reflect on the lessons of history as we confront a myriad of interconnected challenges.
To remember that out of the ashes of conflict and despair, a courageous vision of hope and renewal was born.
That the United Nations was founded, and with it, a common commitment to the values and principles of peace, cooperation, mutual respect and collective security.
Values and principles that are even more imperative today than ever before.
The anniversary of the end of the Second World War is, therefore, a moment to recommit to the values and principles spawned both by and indeed for peace that emerged from its ending, to cherish and honor our shared humanity and the critical necessity of maintaining dialogue, diplomacy, justice, and equality.
With hands and hearts conjoined in common purpose, let us relegate the horrors of war to a distant memory and work harder to foster a present and future where peace and dignity reign in supreme for all, everywhere.
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