Commemoration of International Peace Day calls for global ceasefire

International online News: According to the Xinhua news agency, in order to meet the international Peace Day to come on 21st, the United Nations 18th in New York headquarters held a commemorative ceremony, reiterated its belief in non-violence and called for a global ceasefire.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, the 68th session of the General Assembly President Ashe and diplomats from some countries attended the memorial ceremony held that morning, Ban Ki-moon sounded the peace bell.

Speaking at a memorial ceremony, Ban Ki-moon said that the International Day of Peace was a time for human reflection and a reaffirmation of the faith in Non-violence and a call for a global ceasefire. He appealed to people all over the world to observe a minute of silence at midday in order to commemorate those who perished in the conflict and the survivors who lived in sorrow and suffering.

This year's international and weekday theme is "Education for peace". In his speech, Ban Ki-moon said that education is crucial to fostering a global civic spirit and building a peaceful society. Mr Ban said it was for that reason that he last year sent out the "Education First" global Initiative.

September 7, 2001, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted a resolution to set the annual September 21 as the International Day of Peace starting in 2002. The resolution also identifies the observance of the International Day of Peace through education and advocacy.