6 December 2024 Delegates Dining Room, UNHQ
Dear excellencies and friends,
Let me thank my dear friend Ranju Batra for inviting me, once again, to this celebration and giving me the unique opportunity and privilege to speak today on the occasion of Diwali, the Festival of Lights—a celebration that embodies hope, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness.
The UN since its establishment has sought to provide a forum for cooperation among States to address global and emerging challenges, aiming for sustainable peace and development for all. However, we are now living in a time where multilateralism—long considered the cornerstone of global cooperation—faces significant threats.
The core message of Diwali is the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This festival encourages reflection, renewal, and a commitment to compassion, hope, and positivity.
For millions around the world, Diwali is not just a religious observance, but a powerful reminder of the values of peace, prosperity, and unity. These values are as relevant today as they were in ancient times, especially when we consider the complex international panorama we find ourselves in today
In our current geopolitical landscape, Diwali’s values offer a much-needed antidote. Just as Diwali celebrates the light that drives away darkness, we are called to fight against the forces of division, conflict, and fear that threaten to overshadow the global community. The United Nations, with its commitment to peace, human rights, and sustainable development, remains our collective beacon of hope.
We are witnessing increasing fragmentation in global governance, where countries are retreating into their own spheres of influence and prioritizing short-term national interests over long-term collective well-being. These growing divisions are weakening the very system of international cooperation that is crucial for tackling global challenges, this erosion of multilateralism threatens to undo decades of progress toward peace and prosperity for all.
Diwali, as a festival that celebrates unity, community, and hope, can serve as a reminder that the values of cooperation and mutual respect are not just ideals—they are imperatives. Just as the light of Diwali illuminates the path for individuals and communities, the light of multilateralism can guide us toward solutions that transcend borders and unite us in our shared humanity. The United Nations stands, as a testament to this principle and it is incumbent upon all nations to renew their commitment to multilateralism, to the principles of the UN Charter, and to a future where cooperation triumphs over division.
In Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan and Afghanistan and many other places where the ongoing conflicts have caused immense suffering, the light of Diwali reminds us of the importance of peace, dialogue, and a future where communities can live in security and harmony. In each of these regions, the light of Diwali must reach those affected by violence and conflict, especially illuminating the lives of women and girls who are often the most vulnerable and marginalized. The festival’s message calls on us to remember that true peace and prosperity are only achievable when all people—regardless of gender, race, or background—are treated with dignity and respect.
As we celebrate Diwali, let us not only rejoice in the light of this festival but also commit ourselves to keeping that light burning brightly in our global community. Let us reject the forces of division and embrace the cooperative spirit that has always been at the heart of the United Nations. In doing so, we can create a future where peace, human dignity, and prosperity are not just dreams, but shared realities.
Thank you.