Annual Nelson Mandela Day was marked on July l8 at UN Headquarters

On July l8 at UN Headquarters in New York City, an Informal Meeting of Nelson Mandela Day took place in the ECOSOC Chambers.

The opening remarks were made by H.E. Mr. Miroslav V. Lajcak, President of the UN General Assembly, followed by a statement by UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres.

The keynote speaker at this event was Forest Whitaker, SDG Advocate. UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace and Reconciliation, followed by H.E. Ms. Edna Molewa, Minister of Environmental Affairs of South Africa, and Ms. Penny Abeywardena, Commissioner of International Affairs, City of New York.

A most special highlight of Nelson Mandela International Day was the unveiling of the Nelson Mandela Centenary Stamp on the anniversary date of Nelson Mandela’s 100^th birthday.

In addition, remarks were made by the Chair of regional groups including the African States, Asia-Pacific States, Eastern European States, Latin American and Caribbean States, Western European States, and the United States of America, as the host country.

At the end of the General Assembly Plenary Meeting, a Public Service Activity was organized by DPI in cooperation with the Mayor’s Office of the City of New York.