Mr. Master of Ceremonies, colleagues, distinguished guests, friends, and world citizens,
I am very pleased to associate my mission and my country with the celebration of Diwali at the United Nations in New York. Many of you may not know that Diwali in Trinidad and Tobago is an important festival on our national calendar. This significance arises because almost all the people of Trinidad and Tobago, except for a very small proportion, are descendants of transported individuals. Their ancestors were brought to the islands, some by force and some by persuasion, to work in a plantation system that enriched the Metropole.
East Indians from India were brought to Trinidad and Tobago around 1850 and continued to arrive well into the late 19th century. Today, they form an essential part of the population, approximately 40 to 42%. As a result, we celebrate Diwali in Trinidad and Tobago not as a solely Hindu or sectarian festival but as a national festival. It is the festival of lights that brings hope and renewal, adds depth and meaning to our daily lives, and energizes us to pursue excellence and knowledge.
According to Hindu scriptures, Diwali commemorates the victory of Lord Rama in a great battle. It is a celebration of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. In essence, it is a celebration of hope and ambition for the future.
While it remains a religious festival at its core, the creativity of our people in Trinidad and Tobago shines through in the elaborate designs that adorn homes and gardens. On Diwali evening, it becomes nearly impossible to drive anywhere because traffic jams will keep you stationary for hours as people head out to admire the lights.
The lessons of Diwali are timeless. We live in a world filled with challenges and difficulties, with much darkness, yet there is always light. In my travels as President of the General Assembly, I was privileged to witness that light—the spirit of survival, self-determination, and resilience of the human spirit. Even in the most difficult circumstances, people do not give up; they are inspired to make their best effort, not just to survive but to succeed and help themselves.
As privileged individuals, we must acknowledge our fortune and not forget those who are less fortunate. These people, too, are our people—humans just like us. All they need is a chance, an opportunity to do the same things we are doing. From their ranks, if given the chance, may arise someone who finds the cure for cancer or resolves other global challenges. Diwali reminds us that the greatest power lies in pausing, reaching out, and helping someone in need.
While we often discuss grand philosophies and international politics, at the end of the day, we all desire peace. We want to live in secure societies, and achieving this requires deliberate decisions and efforts. Peace must be nurtured; it cannot simply be taken for granted. It requires investments today to ensure stability and harmony tomorrow.
On this special occasion, let me congratulate my four colleagues who have distinguished themselves and recognize Ranju for her remarkable strength and perseverance. She has achieved much, including establishing and recognizing the Diwali stamp and contributing to the vital work of the Diwali Foundation in promoting the festival’s message of hope to a world in need of light.
Congratulations to all of you. I see Olaf has joined us—congratulations to you as well. May you continue your work and shine the torch of hope and promise so we can create a world filled with dignity and grace for the future.
Finally, congratulations to the Diwali Foundation for its exceptional work in keeping Diwali a living and meaningful celebration here at the United Nations. The lessons of Diwali are indeed timeless.
Thank you.