Syria peace talks set for Jan. 22 in Geneva - UN | Reuters. GENEVA, Nov 25 (Reuters) - An international peace conference aimed at ending Syria's civil war will be held on Jan. 22, the first face-to-face talks between the government of President Bashar al-Assad and rebels seeking to overthrow him, the United Nations said.

UPDATE 2-Syria peace talks set for Jan. 22 in Geneva - UN | Reuters: "The United Nations is hoping for a peaceful transition in Syria, building on an agreement between world powers reached in June last year. The deal calls for the warring sides to agree to set up a transitional governing body with full executive powers, including over military and security entities."

'via Blog this'

U.N. chief hails Congo agreement with M23 rebels [UPDATE] - UPI.com. " Representatives of the government and the M23 signed the agreement in Nairobi, Kenya, after weeks of stalled talks. The deal requires M23 to abandon the rebellion and form a political party, the New Times of Rwanda reported. Ban said the agreement "constitutes a positive step toward ending cycles of deadly conflicts that have caused immense suffering to the Congolese people." "The peace agreement signed is a good step that can be built on," said James Mugume, the permanent secretary in Uganda's Ministry of Foreign affairs.

U.N. chief hails Congo agreement with M23 rebels [UPDATE] - UPI.com: "A communique issued in conjunction with the agreement indicated refugees and internally displaced persons would be allowed to return to their homes in Kinshasa.

It also grants amnesty to M23 rebels for acts of war and insurgency, establishes transnational security arrangements leading to disarmament and calls for the release of rebels being detained for acts of war and rebellion."

'via Blog this'

UN Chief Appeals for Peace in CAR. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is appealing to the Central African Republic to end violence he says has taken the country to "the brink of ruin." In a video address to the CAR's people Friday, Mr. Ban said he is "deeply troubled" by what is happening in the country and called on "everyone to follow the path of peace." He spoke soon after the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights' office said there had been an alarming increase in tensions among religious communities in the CAR. In a briefing, spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani said 27 Muslims were killed in the western village of Bohong. She said the Muslims appear to have been killed Thursday by "anti-balaka" fighters, who are mostly Christian. The spokeswoman said there have also been reports of retaliatory attacks between Christians and Muslims in the capital, Bangui, over the past few days. In his video address, Mr. Ban said people in the CAR should not allow the "voices of hatred" to sow division where it previously did not exist. "Whatever your faith or background, you share the same history and the same future. I call on religious and community leaders -- Muslim and Christian -- to act as messengers for peace. "

UN Chief Appeals for Peace in CAR: "Relief organizations say fighting and sectarian violence have left more than 600 people dead over the past week.

The U.N. refugee agency says the recent unrest has displaced almost 160,000 people. The agency says about 38,000 civilians have sought refuge at Bangui's airport, where there are "no latrines or washing facilities."

"

'via Blog this'

United Nations News Centre - Haiti: UN peacekeeping mission voices concern at recent violence in several cities. The head of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), Sandra Honoré, noted the resurgence of violence and killings perpetrated in Cité Soleil, as well as violent incidents around schools in Cap Haitian. “Such crimes are particularly disturbing as they endanger the safety of all, and the social peace that Haiti needs to move forward on the path of strengthening rule of law and socio-economic development,” she stated in a news release. The Mission urged all Haitians, civil society and other actors, including political, religious and community leaders, to continue working for peace.

United Nations News Centre - Haiti: UN peacekeeping mission voices concern at recent violence in several cities: "MINUSTAH also reiterated its commitment to support Haitian authorities, especially the Haitian National Police, to prevent violence and to strengthen the rule of law institutions in line with its mandate.

Last month the UN Security Council extended MINUSTAH's mandate until mid-October 2014. In doing so, it reiterated that building the capacity of the Haitian National Police remains “a most critical task” for the Mission."

'via Blog this'

Damascus (AFP) - Syria has so far "fully cooperated" in destroying its massive chemical arsenal, the chief of the joint Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and United Nations mission said Monday. "To date, the government of Syria has fully cooperated in supporting the work of the advance team and the OPCW-UN joint mission," said mission chief Sigrid Kaag in Damascus. Kaag said that "by joining the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Syrian government has indicated its commitment to the task" of destroying it arsenal. A team of UN-OPCW inspectors arrived in Syria on October 1 to oversee the implementation of UN Security Council 2118, which orders the destruction of Syria's chemical weapons and production facilities by mid-2014. "The timeframes are challenging given the goal of the elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons programme in the first half of 2014," Kaag said in a statement. She said the team had "had very good meetings with the highest levels of the Syrian government". "There is constant, close cooperation," said Kaag, describing the destruction of the chemical arsenal as "one common goal".

Syria fully cooperative on chemical disarmament: mission head - Yahoo News: "The Security Council passed its resolution after hundreds of people were killed in sarin gas attacks on the outskirts of Damascus on August 21.

The United States threatened military strikes, but then reached a deal with key Damascus backer Russia which became the basis for Resolution 2118."

'via Blog this'http://news.yahoo.com/syria-fully-cooperative-chemical-disarmament-mission-head-143456076.html

International Day of Peace observances may include: Reading UN and UPF statements about the International Day of Peace and observing one minute of silence A forum on the theme chosen by the United Nations Prayers and readings from various religions (see PowerPoint presentations in English | French | Russian | Spanish), which can be read as representatives of various religions each light a candle or pour water into a common bowl Music, art, dances, and food from various cultures A march, rally, service project, or sports event

United Nations International Day of Peace: "For potential partners see:
The International Day of Peace Vigil
The Peace Pole Project
United Religions Initiative Cooperation Circles
Campus Peace Centers
Peace Jam's Global Call to Action"

'via Blog this'

Each year on September 21, the UN invites all nations and people to honor a cessation of hostilities and commemorate the International Day of Peace through education and public awareness on issues related to peace. In the quest for peace, UPF and its Ambassadors for Peace around the world organize commemorations of the International Day of Peace each year. Theme for 2013: "Education for Peace" "It is not enough to teach children how to read, write and count. Education has to cultivate mutual respect for others and the world in which we live, and help people forge more just, inclusive and peaceful societies." - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, 100-day Countdown Message to the International Day of Peace

United Nations International Day of Peace: "2013 Observances Planned
Argentina - International Poetry Contest awards in Buenos Aires
Austria - Forum with Rigoberta Menchu at the Vienna International Centre
Barbados - A week of activities in Bridgetown
Costa Rica - Television broadcasts and a peace fair in San Jose
Czech Republic - Celebration in Prague
Dominican Republic - Celebration in Bonao
Ecuador - A celebration in the National Assembly's former Senate Hall
Netherlands - Peace education, music and refreshments in The Hague
Nigeria - National Peacebuilding Convocation in Abuja
Paraguay - Seminar in Asuncion
Peru - Forum in the Peruvian Congress
Solomon Islands - Educational forum in Honiara
UK - Concert in London of Middle Eastern music featuring Tally Koren and Nizar Abu Zeidolomo"

'via Blog this'

Singing for peace: UN ambassadors launch CD to bridge cultural, generational divides. “We wanted to speak about peace in a way other than our speeches, which some people say are a little boring,” Simona-Mirela Miculescu said ahead of the launch of the Ambassadors Sing for Peace album, a compilation of songs promoting world peace, hope and togetherness performed by five United Nations Ambassadors and youth choirs. “This is a beautiful synergy between diplomacy and music, and we’re very happy that we created this synergy” said Ms. Miculescu, who is the Permanent Representative of Romania to the UN. “In troubled times like this, I think absolutely every kind of peace message has to go out. I hope when listening to this CD people will be aware of the fact that peace starts with each of us,” the Ambassador added before stepping on stage for a practice session of Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World” prior to yesterday’s launch and live performance at UN Headquarters in New York. The album also includes “What a Wonderful World”, “Paix Sur La Terre” and eight other popular tunes and one original, all sung by Canadian Guillermo Rishchynski, Cape Verde’s Antonio Pedro Monteiro Lima, Eduardo Ulibarri of Costa Rica, and Marlene Moses of Nauru.

United Nations News Centre - Feature: Singing for peace: UN ambassadors launch CD to bridge cultural, generational divides: "“We tried to come up with unique ways to present these songs so it was a little more of a world music view […] than the standard pop rock covers,” said Gary Fry, Emmy Award-winning composer who arranged and provided artistic direction for the album.

For example, he chose a Brazilian Machado rhythm on the ABBA song, ‘I Have a Dream’.

For the background vocals, instead of several singers, Mr. Fry used children’s choirs and high school singers from the Chicago area, where he is based.

“They were so excited,” he said about the young singers whose voices appear on the CD. “Children are the hope of the future for peace so it just makes sense to have linked between generations for this project.”" CLICK LINK TO READ FULL ARTICLE

'via Blog this'

SPLM-N calls on Switzerland to support AU, UN decisions for peace in Sudan - The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North (SPLM-N) urged Swiss officials to support African Union and United Nations resolutions for peace in South Kordofan and Blue Nile stressing that it should lead to a comprehensive process in the country. A high ranking rebel delegation from the SPLM-N led by its deputy leader Abdel Aziz El-Hilu discussed on 30 August with Swiss officials at the foreign ministry in Bern issues related to the humanitarian situation in the rebel held areas and urged their support for UN Security Council Resolution and the peace process related to the Two Areas under the auspices of the AUHIP and the chair of IGAD. “This process should lead to a holistic approach to address the Sudan issue in its totality, away from a piecemeal solution practice”, stressed a statement released by the SPLM-N secretary-general Yasir Arman on Monday. The Swiss government brokered a humanitarian cessation of hostilities 11 years ago in the Nuba Mountains between the Sudanese government and the SPLM signed on 19 January 2002. The African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations in its resolution 2046 (2012) called on the Sudanese government and the SPLM-N to hold direct talks to settle the conflict in the two states based on a framework agreement signed on 28 June 2011. In line with this framework which had been swiftly denounced by Khartoum few days after the signing, the two parties vowed to establish a political partnership and work together to implement democratic principles, rule of law, respect of diversity and human rights in Sudan. Sudan Tribune: Plural news and views on Sudan

SPLM-N calls on Switzerland to support AU, UN decisions for peace in Sudan - Sudan Tribune: Plural news and views on Sudan: "Last April before a meeting with a Sudanese negotiating team organised by the African mediation, the group said they are ready to sign a framework agreement with Khartoum on a holistic process including Darfur rebel groups and opposition forces to settle the regional conflicts and prepare for a democratic transition in the whole country.

Arman, who was part of the SPLM-N visiting delegation, said they met with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva to discuss the humanitarian situation in the rebel controlled areas. The meeting also discussed the release of Sudanese army members held by the SPLM-N, he added.

The rebel delegation last week also signed a deed of commitment with the Geneva Call group, adhering to a total ban on anti-personnel mines. The SPLM-N, in accordance with the signed charter, committed to destroy its stock"

'via Blog this'

Syria: William Hague snubs Labour call to include Iran in peace talks | The foreign secretary, William Hague, has rejected Labour calls for Iran to be included in Syrian peace talks, saying the Iranian regime was actively engaged in assisting widespread murder by the Assad regime, and had not yet expressed support for a transitional government in Syria. The shadow foreign secretary, Douglas Alexander, had called for a Syrian contact group to be formed involving key countries in the region, including Iran and Saudi Arabia, designed to kickstart a second round of peace talks in Geneva. Iranian involvement was also supported by the former Labour foreign secretary Jack Straw and some Tory MPs during Foreign Office questions on Tuesday. Hague said he was willing to meet the new Iranian foreign minister at a UN special assembly in New York, but questioned the over-optimistic view of Iranian diplomacy among some MPs. Hague rejected the idea of a contact group proposed by Alexander and seen by Labour as successful in Lebanon. Hague was wary of Iranian involvement, pointing out that Tehran had not been prepared to endorse the outcome of the first Geneva conference calling for a transitional government in Syria. He also said Iran was "actively engaged in assisting widespread murder by the Assad regime". He said it was not a lack of forums that was a stumbling block to a settlement on Syria, but the lack of political agreement. He explained: "Our problem is not being unable to discuss these things in the international community – it is being unable to agree how we bring about a transitional government in Syria, formed from government and opposition by mutual consent. "There is no shortage of venues for discussing those things, platforms for discussing those things – we have had two and a half years of discussion on this. It is agreement that is elusive, not a forum for discussion." Hague also assured Conservative MPs that there would not be a second vote on UK involvement in any attack on the Syrian regime. He stressed that any vote would not be on the same terms, suggesting that the government was keeping its options open in case circumstances changed radically. The cabinet also reviewed the state of the diplomatic, humanitarian and military crisis on Syria, and agreed a second Commons vote was impossible after David Cameron's unexpected defeat last Thursday. It was notable that Hague held back from attacking Labour's stance on Syria, but it is unlikely that Cameron will be as constrained at prime minister's questions on Wednesday. Labour has been keen to set out a fresh diplomatic path in light of its rejection of a military route. Alexander expressed disappointment that Lakhdar Brahimi, the UN special envoy, will not be attending the G20 summit in St Petersburg on Thursday and Friday. After the Commons exchanges Alexander said: "It is deeply disappointing that the foreign secretary has apparently accepted that world leaders won't even get to discuss Syria collectively at the G20 summit in Russia this week. "As the leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies meet this week, the UK must request that the Syrian crisis is top of the agenda, not just discussed on the margins of the meeting. "Sadly, the foreign secretary today appeared to rule out the UK pressing for UN special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi to be invited to the G20 summit, and for a Syria contact group to be created as a matter of urgency. Politics | theguardian.com.

Syria: William Hague snubs Labour call to include Iran in peace talks | Politics | theguardian.com: ""The scale of the suffering in Syria demands a more active diplomatic engagement ahead of this week's summit." Hague said Syria would dominate the bilaterals at the G20, but the formal summit organised by Russia, one of Assad's strongest allies, is under the control of the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

He pointed out that Russia supported a second Geneva conference and it was incumbent on Russia to do more.

Hague also said more would have to be done to help with the refugee crisis on the borders of Syria, saying the British government has already spent more than £350m to help the Syrian humanitarian crisis now estimated to involve 2 million refugees.

He added: "There have often been, and continues to be, severe problems of humanitarian access – often not permitted by the regime.

"It is another testimony towards the callousness of this regime towards its own people that not only have they killed so many tens of thousands but also that they obstruct the delivery of aid, including medical supplies, to people in their own country who desperately need it.""

'via Blog this'

Nigeria: UN Solicits Nigeria's Help to Restore Peace in Guineas Bissau

allAfrica.com: Nigeria: UN Solicits Nigeria's Help to Restore Peace in Guineas Bissau: "The United Nations (UN) has urged Nigeria to assist the UN Security Council towards the move to restore constitutional order in Guinea Bissau.

This was contained in a letter handed over to the Nigeria Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, in Abuja at the weekend, by the Special Representative of Secretary-General of the UN in Guinea Bissau, Jose Ramos-Horta.

He said the request was in recognition of Nigeria's role within the sub-region and Africa at large."

'via Blog this' CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

UN Hopes 2013 Will Be Decisive Year for Peace in Middle East. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on a visit to Jerusalem stressed his full support for direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, and voiced the hope that this year will be a decisive one for peace in the Middle East. “I am encouraged that Israelis and Palestinians have re-engaged in direct dialogue. But for these negotiations to have a chance at success, they need to be meaningful,” Mr. Ban said at a joint press conference with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “I know that when a problem has remained an open wound for decades, causing hardships and casualties on both sides, it might sometimes seem that the problem will never be solved,” he continued. “Dealing [with] the symptom might seem easier in the short term. It takes courage, vision, and creativity to decide that the long-term cost of that problem is actually too high. That is what is happening now with the Israeli-Palestinian issue.” Direct negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians stalled in September 2010, after Israel refused to extend its freeze on settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territory. Following recent efforts by United States Secretary of State John Kerry, the two sides resumed negotiations this week. “I am here to urge all the leaders to continue along the path to peace and to underscore a shared commitment to work together to make 2013 a decisive year for Israeli-Palestinian peace and peace in the region,” stated Mr. Ban, who is visiting Israel for the sixth time as Secretary-General. In addition to Mr. Netanyahu, Mr. Ban also met with Israeli President Shimon Peres. Speaking to reporters along with Mr. Peres, the Secretary-General noted that direct negotiations remain the “single most credible path” to a solution. He also urged all parties to avoid actions that risk undermining the negotiations. “Both sides need to sustain an environment conducive for the peace process to move forward. People need to see improvements on the ground, including economic progress for Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, and greater security for Israelis and Palestinians.” Mr. Ban also held meetings with the Justice Minister, the Defence Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. In addition, he took part in an Israeli Model UN event at the UN headquarters in Jerusalem, at which he said students everywhere should have both passion and compassion, and lift their vision beyond boundaries. While at the UN headquarters, the Secretary-General met the new head of the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), Major-General Michael Finn. Also today, Mr. Ban visited the grave site on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem of former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, who the UN chief noted lived through the war to become “a champion of peace and security” for Israel and the region.

UN Hopes 2013 Will Be Decisive Year for Peace in Middle East | Scoop News: "“As Secretary-General of the United Nations it is a great honour for me to work together with the people of Israel to build upon his legacy,” Mr. Ban said, adding that he hoped that both parties, Israelis and Palestinians, will remember Mr. Rabin’s legacy and realize a two-State solution.

Mr. Ban’s two-day visit to the region also took him to Jordan and Palestine.

For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news

ENDS

© Scoop Media"

'via Blog this'

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon will travel to the Middle East to show support for the peace talks between Palestine and Israel, a spokesperson said here on Tuesday. Ban is departing for Jordan where he will meet with King Abdullah II and the country's Minister of Foreign Affairs. After which, he will travel to the Palestinian territory of Ramallah and visit Jerusalem. The UN chief is expected to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, and hold talks with Israeli President Shimon Peres and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, UN deputy spokesperson Eduardo del Buey told reporters here at a daily briefing. He will also meet the lead Israeli and Palestinian negotiators and the U.S. Special Envoy for the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, Martin Indyk, said del Buey. The secretary-general will also visit the graves of former Palestinian President Yasser Arafat and former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. - Xinhua | English.news.cn

UN chief to travel to Middle East to show support for peace talks - Xinhua | English.news.cn: "When asked about Ban's specific message to the leaders of the two nations involved in peace talks, the deputy spokesperson said "it would be a message of support for the Middle East peace talks, " adding that "the Secretary-General is involved in the Middle East peace process as one of the principal members of the Quartet. "

The Quartet, which comprises the UN, the European Union, Russia and the United States, commits itself to the Middle East peace on the basis of the widely backed two-State solution, which means a secure State of Israel to live in peace with an independent State of Palestine.

Israel and Palestinians resumed peace talks on July 29 over an Iftar dinner hosted by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. It came almost three years after the last direct talks broke down between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.

Editor: Mu Xuequan
" CLICK LINK TO READ THE ARTICLE

'via Blog this'

UN chief hails Pakistan’s leading role in peacekeeping operations. Visiting Pakistan on the eve of its Independence Day, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon hailed the country’s lead role in United Nations peacekeeping operations, while also addressing issues such as girls’ education and the use of drones. Mr. Ban told an audience at the inauguration of the Centre for International Peace and Stability in Islamabad that he was overwhelmed with gratitude: “gratitude as the United Nations Secretary-General and gratitude as a global citizen for what Pakistan and her people have been doing for international peace and security. “More than 100 countries contribute troops and police for United Nations peacekeeping missions. Pakistan is number one,” he stated, adding that is impossible to speak about the history of UN peacekeeping without highlighting the country’s contributions. He noted that 8,000 of Pakistan’s men and women currently serve in complex and challenging missions, including Darfur, Haiti and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The new Centre, at the National University of Science and Technology, demonstrates Pakistan’s determination to be a force for peace by drawing on its experiences, sharing its knowledge and deepening its contribution, Mr. Ban said. “Training is a strategic investment in peacekeeping and here you will build the skills in preparing peacekeepers to take on a new generation of challenges.”

United Nations News Centre - UN chief hails Pakistan’s leading role in peacekeeping operations: "The Secretary-General said the UN is also working to rise to these challenges, including through the use of new technologies to help in better implementing its mandates and to provide better security for its troops.

“Let me be clear that these new tools, such as unmanned unarmed aerial vehicles, are for information purposes only. They are essentially flying cameras,” he stated.

“But armed unmanned aerial vehicles are a different matter,” he continued. “As I have often and consistently said, the use of armed drones, like any other weapon, should be subject to long-standing rules of international law, including international humanitarian law.

“This is the very clear position of the United Nations. Every effort should be made to avoid mistakes and civilian casualties.”

While in the Pakistani capital, Mr. Ban also took part in an event at the Islamabad College for Girls to promote education, especially for girls and women." PLEASE CLICK LINK TO READ FULL ARTICLE

'via Blog this'

UN Envoy for the Great Lakes Region of Africa stressed that she has no other agenda than to help the people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighbouring countries to regain peace. Speaking to Radio Okapi, a radio station backed by the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC that is known by its acronym MONUSCO, Mary Robinson said it was important for her to remove any ambiguity regarding her position. "As Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, I have no other agenda than to help this country [... ] to restore peace for the people so the country can move forward." Mrs. Robinson said that she fully supports Resolution 2098, which was unanimously approved in March by the 15-member UN Security Council. "This is a very clear resolution that provides a vision and a holistic and comprehensive approach to promoting peace and stability in the DRC. In my opinion, it leaves no room for ambiguity." She added that the resolution both launches a political process that aims to bring peace to the DRC, as well as authorizes an intervention brigade within the current UN peacekeeping force. "These are two pillars that go together, one does not exclude the other," the envoy stressed.

allAfrica.com: Central Africa: UN Envoy Says Her Only Agenda Is Helping Restore Peace to Africa's Great Lakes Region (Page 1 of 2): "Resolution 2098, which extends the work of MONUSCO through March 2014, provides a framework for the UN to support Congolese authorities by protecting civilians, neutralizing armed groups, and implementing key reforms to consolidate peace in the country, particularly in the area of security sector reform and rule of law.

The resolution also approves an intervention brigade to carry out targeted offensive operations, with or without the Congolese national army, against armed groups that threaten peace in the eastern part of DRC - a region that is prone to cycles of violence and consequent humanitarian suffering.

The objectives of the new force - based in North Kivu province in eastern DRC - is to neutralize armed groups, reduce the threat they pose to State authority and civilian security and make space for stabilization activities.

The brigade is putting in place measures gradually, Mrs. Robinson told Radio Okapi, in collaboration with national authorities to help address the situation on the ground." PLS CLICK LINK TO READ FULL ARTICLE

'via Blog this'

Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon urged regional organisations to find ways to expand their cooperation and dialogue to address increasingly interconnected global challenges. Ki-moon, who spoke at a high-level debate in the Security Council, said “Regional and sub-regional organisations have deep knowledge, unique insights and strong local networks. These elements are critical for mediation, planning a peacekeeping operation or helping a country to build lasting peace”. The meeting, according to a release by the global body, dwelt on cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations in maintaining international peace and security.

UN Wants Expanded Cooperation among Regional Organisations, Articles | THISDAY LIVE: "“We are better at sharing information and analysis on brewing crises, but we have to work harder on swift response and long-term prevention,” he noted, asking countries to examine how they can expand their cooperation in pursuit of international peace and security. “We need to learn from the lessons of our collaborations to build ever more innovative and flexible partnership arrangements that draw on our respective strengths,” he said. “Only through cooperation will we meet our shared aspirations for a more peaceful world.” The debate, presided over by President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner of Argentina, which holds the Council’s presidency this month, sought to further strengthen dialogue and exchange of information among regional and sub-regional organisations and the UN on issues such as conflict prevention, peaceful settlement of disputes, peacekeeping and post-conflict peacebuilding. In his remarks, Ki-moon highlighted examples of valuable cooperation between the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations across the globe." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

The United Nations peacekeeping force monitoring the Israeli-Lebanese border said it has opened an investigation into an incident involving an explosion that injured several soldiers belonging to the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). In a statement issued to the press, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said it was informed by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) that an IDF patrol had crossed the so-called Blue Line separating the two countries last night in the general area of Labouneh and that there had subsequently been an explosion.

United Nations News Centre - UN peacekeeping force investigating blast near Israeli-Lebanese border: "UNIFIL immediately launched an investigation into the alleged violation of Security Council resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Israel and the Lebanese group Hizbollah, and calls for respect for the Blue Line, the disarming of all militias in Lebanon, and an end to arms smuggling in the area.“A UNIFIL investigation team is currently at the location indicated by LAF. Our effort is to ascertain if any traces of a possible explosion or other activity can be identified on the ground,” the mission stated.“At the same time, we have asked the IDF to provide us details of any incident in the area as alleged and, if so, its precise location,” UNIFIL added. Established in 1978, UNIFIL is tasked with ensuring that the area between the Blue Line and the Litani River is free of unauthorized weapons, personnel and assets. It also cooperates with the LAF so they can fulfil their security responsibilities." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

Security Council extends UN peacekeeping missions in Côte d’Ivoire, Cyprus and Darfur. Security Council wrapped up its scheduled work for July with the unanimous extension of United Nations peacekeeping operations in Côte d’Ivoire and Darfur, – and a vote to continue the UN mission in Cyprus. The Council unanimously decided to extend the mandate of the UN Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) until 30 June 2014 to continue work on its core priorities of protecting civilians, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of former combatants, and security sector reform. Members also agreed that the Mission should be reconfigured by 30 June 2014 to consist of 7,137 military personnel from the current limit of 10,400, as recommended in Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s latest report presented earlier this month by Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Hervé Ladsous. The Council noted a possible further reduction down to 5,437 military personnel by June 2015, depending on the security on the ground and the improved capacity of the Government to take over UNOCI’s security role. The Council also decided that UNOCI should reconfigure its military presence to concentrate resources in high-risk areas to more effectively assist the Government in protecting civilians and stability the security situation in the country. Turning to Cyprus, the Council extended until 31 January 2014 the mandate of the UN Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) by a vote of 13 to 0, with two members, Azerbaijan and Pakistan, abstaining.

United Nations News Centre - Security Council extends UN peacekeeping missions in Côte d’Ivoire, Cyprus and Darfur: "One of the longest-running UN peacekeeping missions, UNFICYP has been deployed on the island since 1964, when inter-communal fighting erupted between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities.

The Council today reiterated its call on the leadership of those two communities to accelerate the pace of talks aimed at reunifying the divided Mediterranean island nation.

Also today, the Security Council unanimously extended the mandate of the UN-African Union Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) for a further 13 months, until 31 August 2014." CLICK LINK TO READ FULL ARTTICLE

'via Blog this'

Israelis, Palestinians set framework for Mideast peace talks. US Sec of State, John Kerry said the parties expect negotiations will be challenging. "We all appreciate -- believe me, we appreciate the challenges ahead," Kerry said. "But even as we look down the difficult road that is before us and consider the complicated choices that we face, we cannot lose sight of something that is often forgotten in the Middle East, and that is what awaits everybody with success." The nine-month time frame provides a period to explore ideas without fear of a walkout, officials said. Given the time and space, Kerry pledged all issues will be discussed. "The parties have agreed here today that all of the final-status issues, all of the core issues, and all other issues are all on the table for negotiation, and they are on the table with one simple goal: a view to ending the conflict, ending the claims," Kerry said. Israeli Justice Minister Tzipi Livni, Israel's chief negotiator, said before the dinner she hoped there would be "a better understanding now that it is in the interest of both of our people to reach an agreement to end this conflict." Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's special envoy, Isaac Molho, also participated in the talks. The Palestinian Authority was represented by chief negotiator Saeb Erekat, who negotiated the 1993 Oslo Accords with Israel, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' close adviser Mohammed Shtayyeh. The Palestinian delegation had no comment Monday night, but Abbas struck a hard line in Cairo, saying no Israeli settlers or border forces could remain in a future Palestinian state. "In a final resolution, we would not see the presence of a single Israeli -- civilian or soldier -- on our lands," Abbas said in a briefing to mostly Egyptian journalists. "An international, multinational presence like in Sinai, Lebanon and Syria -- we are [OK] with that," he said, referring to U.N. peacekeeping operations in those places. Read more: http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2013/07/30/Peace-framework-worked-out-by-Israelis-Palestinians.....

Israelis, Palestinians set framework for Mideast peace talks [UPDATE] - UPI.com: "Israeli and Palestinian leaders have agreed to "remain engaged in sustained, continuous and substantive negotiations" toward a peace treaty, diplomats said.The Israeli and Palestinian delegations met Monday night and again Tuesday in Washington to discuss a framework for what U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said both sides have agreed will be at least nine months of peace talks following a three-year gap in face-to-face negotiations. The two sides are expected to meet to begin formal negotiations in two weeks in the Middle East at a location to be determined." 'via Blog this' CLICK LINK TO READ FULL ARTICLE

Mid-East Peace Talks: John Kerry deserves great credit for his Mideast initiative. When Secretary of State John Kerry first waded into the muddy waters of Middle East peace, he was ridiculed and ignored. After his third trip to the region, he was called “ham-handed” and “naive.” After his fifth trip, he was accused of “Don Quixote” diplomacy. But now talks between Israelis and Palestinians are finally resuming after years of stalemate. Kerry’s quiet, dogged efforts are being celebrated. He deserves credit for sheer determination in the face of so many naysayers and skeptics....- Editorials - The Boston Globe

John Kerry deserves great credit for his Mideast initiative - Editorials - The Boston Globe: "Of course there is no guarantee that talks will actually lead anywhere. Kerry has a long road ahead if he wants a place in history as the statesman who solved this intractable problem. But Kerry has breathed new life into process that nearly everyone had abandoned." CLINK TO READ ARTICLE

'via Blog this'

UN International Day of Peace 2013 (playlist)

How to Achieve Peace via Meditative Prayer? Ambassador Zara Jane Juan We...

African bishops urge international community to help end 'forgotton war' in The African bishops, meeting in Kinshasa, Congo, have concluded the 26th plenary meeting of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), calling upon the political leaders of the continent to work not in their own interests, but for the benefit of all the African population. They also urged the international community to help end the "forgotton war" in Congo. The theme of the plenary was 'The Church, the family of God in Africa at the service of reconciliation, justice and peace' and its aim was to adopt new pastoral orientations for reconciliation through the Gospel. The prelates, who met from 9 to 14 July, invited Africans to commit themselves urgently to the struggle for a just social order and to enable the rights proper to human dignity to be enjoyed by all, in all areas of life. They also called for an end to the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo, that has been destroying the country for years and which has caused millions of deaths and serious human rights violations, in addition to the rape of thousands of women and girls. - Congo on Independent Catholic News.

African bishops urge international community to help end 'forgotton war' in Congo on Independent Catholic News: ""We cannot remain silent before a drama which appears to have been forgotten" said the bishops. "We launch an urgent appeal to the United Nations, the European Union, the African Union and the governments of other countries in any way involved to take resolute action to bring an end to this war which has already lasted too long"." CLICK LINK FOR THE ARTICLE

'via Blog this'

Troop Withdrawal From Mali - Nigeria Petitions UN Chief ....Contrary to the misconception that the Federal Government of Nigeria is withdrawing its troops from the United Nations, UN, peace-keeping force in Mali because of pressing security challenges at home, Sunday Vanguard has authoritatively learnt that the action is a protest against the UN for naming a Rwandan army general as the force commander instead of a Nigerian officer. The Rwandan is 50-year-old General Jean-Bosco Kazura and he has been appointed to command the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). Nigeria's Major General Shehu Abdulkadir, who was the force commander of African-led International Support Mission in Mali (AFISMA) from inception in January 2013, was said to have come out tops in the interview for the appointment of the force commander but was sidelined, a source said. This is the first time Nigeria would be unilaterally recalling its troops from any UN operations. Nigeria is the fourth largest troop contributing country under the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations - and no Nigerian has had any appointment as force commander in any of the UN peace keeping missions.

allAfrica.com: Nigeria: Troop Withdrawal From Mali - Nigeria Petitions UN Chief: "Nigeria is the fourth largest troop contributing country under the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations - and no Nigerian has had any appointment as force commander in any of the UN peace keeping missions." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

Abbas: 'All options open' if peace talks fail - Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas warned in comments published Monday that "all options are open" if the U.S. fails to restart Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The comments, Abbas' first since U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry announced last week that peace talks may resume for the first time in five years, may be an attempt to exert pressure on the U.S. and Israel to meet Palestinian demands on the terms of formal negotiations. Israeli and Palestinian representatives are to hold preliminary talks in Washington soon. There, the sides are to work out the final details of what Kerry portrayed as broad agreement on the framework for restarting peace talks that collapsed in 2008.- Yahoo! News

Abbas: 'All options open' if peace talks fail - Yahoo! News: "Abbas did not name his other options, but referred to last year's upgrade of the Palestinian status at the U.N. At the time, the General Assembly accepted a state of Palestine in the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem — lands Israel captured in 1967 — as a non-member observer state in a largely symbolic gesture.

Palestinian officials have said that in the absence of negotiations with Israel, they would seek further U.N. recognition, including membership in U.N. agencies and possible redress against Israeli policies at the International Criminal Court." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

"U.N. envoy to Afghanistan Jan Kubis called for peace as Muslims across the world mark the holy month of Ramadan. "Afghanistan has endured more than three decades of violence and is undergoing a political and security transition, which is vital to its future development," he said in a statement. "I take the opportunity to also call upon all parties to the conflict to respect the sanctity of this month and allow Afghan families to worship and celebrate in peace.""

U.N. calls for Afghan peace during Ramadan - UPI.com: CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

UN Department of Peacekeeping Operation (DPKO) Hervé Ladsous pledged UN support in helping South Sudan develop into a modern state. UN peacekeeping chief, Hervé Ladsous speaks to reporters after a meeting with Jonglei state governor Kuol Manyang Juuk (left behind) who discusses with his aides in Bor on 7 July 2013 (ST) "We are very supportive to make the country a modern state with functioning institutions with full respect for human rights. This is the fundamental objective of the United Nations”, said Ladsous who was accompanied by other top officials of the peace keeping operation

UN peacekeeping chief visits Bor, pledges support to South Sudan - Sudan Tribune: Plural news and views on Sudan: "Ladsous said the UN’s mandate in South Sudan would soon be renewed and that the peace keeping mission will continue to monitor peace in areas where they have been deployed in the country. The UN’s head of peace keeping however said that with austerity measures in many countries around the world, the UN is facing financial challenges which he said makes it difficult for the global body to address all the challenges in South Sudan. “It is clear that the United Nation doesn’t have the means to take over all these issues immediately in this time of financial austerity in the whole world”, said Ladsous. In his briefing to the UN team, the state governor, Kuol Manyang Juuk, attributed the violence in his state to poverty." CLINK LINK TO READ MORE of the article of John Actually

'via Blog this'

"The UN is beginning its military mission in Mali by bringing 6,000 West African troops already in the country under its command. By December it will reach full strength with 12,640 uniformed personnel. The UN will take over security duties from the French forces which led an operation to oust Islamist militants from the north in January. Its first mission will be to secure the north so that Mali can hold a presidential election on 28 July."

UN peace force begins Mali operation - Updated News:
'via Blog this'

UN officials strongly condemned attack on Camp Liberty, an Iranian exile camp in Iraq, and called on the Government to assist and protect camp residents in need. According to media reports two people were killed and dozens injured in a mortar attack to the camp, which is located near western Baghdad. The Secretary-General's Special Representative for Iraq, Martin Kobler and the country representative for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Claire Bourgeois, said they are “deeply concerned that today's tragic violence has occurred despite their repeated requests to the Government of Iraq to provide Camp Liberty and its residents with protective measures, including T-Walls.”

United Nations News Centre - UN officials strongly condemn attack on Iranian exile camp in Iraq: "More than 3,000 residents, most of them members of a group known as the People's Mojahedeen of Iran, are temporarily housed in Camp Liberty – a transit facility also know as Camp Hurriya – while UNHCR carries out a process to determine their refugee status." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

Congo: AFRICAN economies are rising steadily, but in the Democratic Republic of Congo life for many is as bad as ever. Armed men rape and plunder with impunity. Rebel groups terrorise vast stretches of land rich in minerals and agricultural potential. Millions have died as a result. And for years the outside world has done little more than shrug. Its main effort—a 14-year-old UN peacekeeping mission—has failed to end “Africa’s world war”, which started as an ethnic conflict sparked by the genocide next door in Rwanda before descending into murderous anarchy farther afield. Now things are changing. The Rwandan government backed Congolese rebels until recently but, shamed by their cruelty and by international outrage, it has abandoned them. That presents an opportunity too good to waste, so the UN Security Council is trying a new tack (see article), deploying 3,000 troops to fight at least some of the rebels. Soldiers from South Africa, Tanzania and Malawi wearing UN insignia will take on the irregulars who sow mayhem in Congo’s east.

The United Nations in Congo: Art of darkness | The Economist: "This is the first time that the UN will send its own troops into battle. In the past the Security Council has authorised the use of “all necessary force” but has delegated the fighting to posses from willing nations." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

U.N. Security Council boosts peacekeeping force in Abyei: U.N. Security Council approved an extra 1,126 troops for a U.N. peacekeeping force in the flashpoint Abyei region, claimed by Sudan and South Sudan and a base for several armed groups. The 15-member council extended for six months the mandate of the mission, known as UNISFA, and boosted to 5,326 the number of troops, provided by Ethiopia, in the province, prized for fertile land and oil reserves. "The presence of armed groups inside the Safe Demilitarised Zone remains a considerable security concern," U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the Security Council in a report that requested the increase in peacekeepers. South Sudan split from its northern neighbour in 2011 under a 2005 peace deal that ended decades of civil war. Like South Sudan, Abyei was meant to have an independence referendum, agreed under the 2005 deal, but Sudan and South Sudan have been unable to agree which tribal members should participate.

U.N. Security Council boosts peacekeeping force in Abyei - World Updates | The Star Online: "U.N. peacekeepers have been administering Abyei since Sudan seized it in May 2011 following an attack on a convoy of peacekeepers and Sudanese soldiers which the United Nations blamed on southern forces. Khartoum later withdrew its forces under a U.N. peace plan." CLICK LINK TO READ MORE

'via Blog this'

'Netanyahu, Abdullah met in Jordan to talk peace' | JPost | Israel News

'Netanyahu, Abdullah met in Jordan to talk peace' | JPost | Israel News: "According to AFP, the two leaders met to discuss the frozen Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

The meeting comes in advance of a much anticipated visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories later this month by US President Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry.

It will be Obama’s first visit to Israel since taking office in January 2009. It will similarly be Kerry’s first visit to Israel since he replaced Hillary Clinton as secretary of state in January.

It is hoped that Obama’s visit will rekindle the peace process and lead to direct negotiations. Direct talks between the Palestinians and Israelis broke down in December 2008, and with the exception of a few meetings in September 2010, they have not been renewed."

'via Blog this'

French President François Hollande will be awarded the United Nations cultural agency's peace prize for his "valuable contribution" to peace and stability in Africa, in particular for the country's military intervention in Mali, the agency announced on Thursday. Former Mozambique President Joaquim Chissano, who chaired the jury, said Africa caught the attention of the jury due to a number of threats that are affecting the continent. France has played a significant role in recent efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region, and as such the jury decided to award the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Peace Prize to Hollande. "Having assessed the dangers and the repercussions of the situation on Africa, and on Mali in particular, as well as on the rest of the world, the Jury appreciated the solidarity shown by France to the peoples of Africa," Chissano said, adding that the jury condemned the ongoing conflict in Mali.

France’s Hollande to receive UN peace prize for Mali intervention | WireUpdate | Update to the Minute NewsWire: "The French government decided last month to deploy armed forces in Mali in an effort to prevent rebels from advancing south and reaching the country's capital.

"The Jury condemns the violation of Mali's territorial integrity, the violation of human rights, the taking of hostages and the destruction of the cultural heritage of humanity in Timbuktu," Chissano said. "The Jury therefore decided to award the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Peace Prize to Mr François Hollande, President of the French Republic, for his great contribution to peace and stability in Africa.""
read more: http://wireupdate.com/frances-hollande-to-receive-un-peace-prize-for-mali-intervention.html
'via Blog this'

UN International Day of Peace, Culture of Peace, Ambassador Zara Jane Juan, Sailing for Peace - YouTube

UN International Day of Peace, Culture of Peace, Ambassador Zara Jane Juan, Sailing for Peace - YouTube