Delegates Dining Room, UN, NY
6 December 2024
Distinguished Guests, Colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great honor to share this beautiful evening with you all.
Let me share a few words about Diwali, the festival of lights.
To me the festival of lights is not only a joyful occasion or a celebration, but rather a moment that carries deep spiritual significance.
It represents the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, following the path of development and purification.
It reminds us to overcome the darkness within ourselves.
It teaches us to value our relationships, kindness, gratitude, family bonds and spread peace to those around us.
In this spirit, let me congratulate all Awardees – dear Olof, Ferit, Tarek and Juan Ramon – of this year’s “Diwali Stamp – The Power of One” as they are ambassadors of these values, that are truly universal and are especially relevant during these uneasy times.
I would also like to commend my dearest friends Ranju and Ravi for their energy and tireless efforts that yet again brought light to our lives this evening.
Ravi – you are number one diplomat among us. Your efforts to build bridges cannot be overestimated.
Ranju – you are the hero for me. The symbol of how one person can change the world.
Today and everyday may we be reminded that light always follows darkness.
I thank you!
