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The United Nations has unveiled a life-size statue of former South African president and anti-apartheid activist, Nelson Mandela at the UN’s headquarters in New York.

The UN General Assembly adopted a political declaration at the “Mandela Peace Summit” in commemoration of the centenary of the birth of the late South African president.

Prior to the start of the peace assembly, dignitaries gathered for the unveiling of a statue of Mandela, presented as a gift to the United Nations from the government of South Africa.

UN General Assembly President, María Fernanda Espinosa, said the statue was not done in mourning of Mandela’s passing, rather “in celebration and in deep respect and gratitude.” She said the statue would stand as a “testament to Mandela and, by extension, to the values for which he so fiercely defended and fought: racial equality, non-discrimination, and the incredible value and dignity of human life.”

During the peace summit during,  UN Chief António Guterres gave glowing tributes to Mandela.

South African President Cyril Ramphosa said the UN could only succeed in bringing peace to the extent that global leaders provide leadership that transcends ideological differences and narrow national interests. He said with this summit, leaders are given an opportunity not only to reflect on peace in the world, but to take the measures necessary to end the wars that continue to take millions of innocent lives.

He added that, “we trust that this statue will remain a constant reminder to the international community of the dedication of Nelson Mandela to the mission of the UN and a constant affirmation of South Africa’s commitment to contribute to a better world for all.”

African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki said Nelson Mandela dedicated his wisdom to humanism to the freedom and dignity of people. He said, “at a moment when Multilateralism is suffering attacks from all parts of egoism, intolerance, isolationism, and rejection of the other, the celebration of the centenary of Madiba is a marker of freedom, solidarity, and peace among people.”

Graça Machel, Nelson Mandela’s widow and Co-founder of The Elders, said there was no justification for the loss of life and suffering in conflicts around the world.

The political declaration at the Mandela Peace Summit recognizes the period from 2019 to 2028 as the Nelson Mandela Decade of Peace and calls upon all countries to redouble their efforts to pursue international peace and security, development and human rights in the decade.

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