May 3rd 2024.
The United Nations has recently been abuzz with heated exchanges between India and Pakistan, as the former called out the latter's "most dubious track record" on all fronts. India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, did not hold back in her response to Pakistan's envoy, Munir Akram, who made a series of inflammatory remarks about India during his address on 'Culture of Peace'.
Kamboj made it clear that while the world is facing challenging times, India remains committed to promoting constructive dialogue. Therefore, she chose to disregard Pakistan's comments, which she deemed lacking in decorum and detrimental to the collective efforts towards peace. She urged the delegation to align themselves with the principles of respect and diplomacy, which should guide all discussions at the UN. However, she also questioned if this expectation was too much to ask from a country with such a questionable track record.
Kamboj emphasized that terrorism goes against the very essence of a culture of peace and the core teachings of all religions, which call for compassion, understanding, and coexistence. She stated that it only serves to spread discord, breed hostility, and undermine the universal values of respect and harmony that are integral to cultural and religious traditions worldwide. She stressed the need for member states to work together towards nurturing a genuine culture of peace and to view the world as a united family, in line with India's strong belief.
Kamboj acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the world, including geopolitical tensions and uneven development. She expressed concern over the growing intolerance, discrimination, and violence based on religion or belief, which she believed required urgent attention. She also condemned the escalating attacks on sacred sites, such as churches, monasteries, gurudwaras, mosques, temples, and synagogues, and called for a swift and united response from the global community.
The Ambassador emphasized the need for open and direct discussions on these issues, without giving in to political expediencies. She urged for a strong and proactive approach to tackling these challenges and making them central to policy, dialogues, and international engagements. Kamboj also highlighted India's commitment to the doctrine of Ahimsa, championed by Mahatma Gandhi, which continues to be the cornerstone of their pursuit of peace.
India takes pride in being the birthplace of several religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, and also being a stronghold for Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. Kamboj pointed out that throughout history, India has been a refuge for persecuted faiths, a testament to its unwavering embrace of diversity. She also highlighted the country's rich cultural mosaic, which celebrates diversity and promotes tolerance and coexistence through festivals like Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Nowruz.
Finally, Kamboj commended Bangladesh for presenting the resolution 'Follow-up to the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace', which India proudly co-sponsored. She reiterated India's commitment to working together with other countries towards promoting a culture of peace, and urged the international community to join hands in this endeavor.
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