Embassy of India
BANGKOK

PRESS RELEASE

Commemoration of International Day of Non-Violence at UNCC, Bangkok

     Embassy of India in Bangkok and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) jointly organized an event to commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence on 02 October 2023, the date of birth of Mahatma Gandhi, at the United Nations Conference Center (UNCC) in Bangkok. Mrs. Eksiri Pintaruchi Director-General Department of International Organization represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, and UNESCAP was represented by Ms. Lin Yang, Deputy Executive Secretary.

     The UN General Assembly adopted a consensus Resolution in 2007 declaring 02 October as the International Day of Non-Violence, with a goal to secure a culture of peace, tolerance and understanding with the help of the teachings of India's global icon, Mahatma Gandhi who inspired millions to adopt the path of non-violence.

     The event commenced with paying floral tributes to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in UNCC by dignitaries.

     Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Shri Nagesh Singh described Mahatma Gandhi as a practitioner of truth, non-violence, tolerance, and freedom. He underlined the relevance of Mahatma’s principles and ideologies in the current world. He also highlighted the Government of India’s efforts to implement Gandhian principles in India such as decentralization and women led development.

     Further, Prof. Surat Horachaikul, Director of Indian Studies Center of Chulalongkorn University delivered the key note address on “Mahatma Gandhi’s Life and Legacy”. He underlined the influence of Gandhian principles in shaping the contemporary world order including SDGs of the United Nations.

     In addition to the above, a message on non-violence from the United Nations Secretary General was read and a video message from Executive Secretary of UNESCAP was screened. Moreover, students of Chulalongkorn University recited Mahatma Gandhi's favourite devotional song Vaishnavo Jhanto.

     The event was attended by several dignitaries including Ambassadors and senior diplomats as well as high ranking officials of the Government of Thailand, International Organizations and members of Indian diaspora.

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02 October 2023
Bangkok