On Friday- 21 September 2007 - the International Day of Peace - United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will honour Her Royal Highness Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein of Jordan, First Lady of Dubai; Israeli/Argentinean conductor Daniel Barenboim; Brazilian author Paulo Coelho and Japanese-American violinist Ms. Midori Goto by designating them as United Nations Messengers of Peace. They will join four other Messengers of Peace, individuals who possess widely recognized talents in the fields of art, literature, music and sports, in helping to raise worldwide awareness of the ideals and activities of the United Nations.
In selecting Mr. Coelho for this designation, the Secretary-General said, "Mr. Coelho's talent as a writer and his exceptional ability to touch the lives of men and women across boundaries and cultures would make him a powerful Messenger".
Mr. Coelho said he was honoured by the designation. "I gladly accept this responsibility and am committed to do my best to work towards a better future for the current and next generations".
The native of Rio de Janeiro uses this global appeal to combat poverty and help underprivileged members of Brazilian society through his Paulo Coelho Institute. He is also an advocate of multiculturalism through his work with UNESCO as a Special Counselor for Intercultural Dialogues and Spiritual Convergences. His designation as a Messenger of Peace will allow Mr. Coelho to continue to promote intercultural dialogue.
Paul Coelho's best-selling books, such as "The Alchemist" and "The Pilgrimage," enchant readers from around the world. He has won numerous international awards for his works, which have been translated into more than 65 languages.
*****
More information:
UN Messengers of Peace http://www.un.org/sg/mop ;
UN Goodwill Ambassadors in Ukraine http://www.un.org.ua/ua/ambassadors/ .
Department of Public Information, United Nations Office in Ukraine: tel..(044) 253 9363, fax: (044) 253 2607
20.09.07
