30 September 2010 - A large gathering of people, including the governor of Paktya, senior Government officials, UN agencies, civil society, and school children and teachers, pledged to work towards bringing peace to Afghanistan, at a function to mark Peace Day 2010 in Gardez.

“Today we are observing Peace Day, even as many people continue to die. Due to the absence of peace, our youth are being killed, our women have become widows…and the Afghan people are becoming deprived from leading a prosperous life,” said Zarghona Himmat, a member of the Provincial Council.

Himmat also called on tribal elders and the youth to do their best in bringing peace to the country.

Religious scholars such as Maulavi Mirajuddin, a member of the Ulema’s Council, who also spoke at the event, said Islam teaches the lessons of peace and harmony.

“The Holy Prophet says those who promote reconciliation between two people will go to paradise,” he informed the gathering about the significance of peace from an Islamic point of view.

“Of course, we are all aware there is no peace yet in Afghanistan. So 21 September can not be a day of celebration, but a day of reflection and re-motivation so that we may continue to play our part in the important effort to find peace for Afghanistan, after so many years of violence and difficulty,” Christophe Svillon, from UNAMA, added.

Peace Day memorabilia, including kites, were distributed to participants and doves were set free in the air to end the function.

Meanwhile, with the close cooperation of the Gardez municipality, UNAMA fixed Peace Day banners and posters in different parts of the city.

By Dilawar Khan Dilawar, UNAMA