On 4 October 2019, H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, delivered a keynote address at the Observance of the International Day of Non-Violence co-hosted by the Embassy of India in Bangkok and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) at the United Nations Convention Centre, Bangkok. 

 

The Vice Minister highlighted that non-violence is a universal principle that everyone can relate to and that violence affects all. He also pointed out that, today, the term ‘violence’ refers to a broad set of issues - such as violations of human rights, hate crimes, domestic violence, and violence against women and children. In this connection, he encouraged all to promote change by forging societies built upon the principles of tolerance, raising awareness of new challenges of the digital age, promoting sustainability and inclusiveness for all, and building the infrastructures of society to ensure tolerance and inclusiveness, starting from the local level. 

 

On this occasion, H.E. Ms. Suchitra Durai, Ambassador of India to Thailand, and Ms. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of UNESCAP, delivered opening remarks. The event included the screening of documentary films on the life of Mahatma Gandhi, musical programmes, as well as an exhibition of Mahatma Gandhi drawings. 

 

The event is based on the 61st Session of the United Nations General Assembly’s resolution of 15 June 2017 to establish 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence. This year’s commemoration has added significance as it coincides with the 150th birthday anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

 

The remarks by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand can be read here : http://www.mfa.go.th/main/en/news3/9036/109891