Bangkok--27 Sep--UNIndian Minister to Donate Bust of Gandhi to ESCAP The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), in cooperation with the Embassy of India, will hold the first observance of the International Day of Non-Violence on 2 October at the United Nations Conference Centre, Bangkok. In June, the General Assembly of the United Nations designated 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence, as the International Day of Non-Violence. It invited all governments, organizations of the United Nations system, regional and non-governmental organizations and individuals to commemorate the day and to disseminate the message of non-violence. India’s Minister for Panchayati Raj*, Youth Affairs & Sports and Development of North Eastern Region, Mr. Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, will speak at the Bangkok observance. He will also unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi, a gift from India to UNESCAP. Ms. Noeleen Heyzer, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of UNESCAP, will also address the event. The programme will also include a message from the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, a rendition of Mahatma Gandhi’s favourite Hindi inspirational hymns by Ms. Tara Srinidhi, vocal artist, and a musical performance by Ms. Sophie Tanapura, soprano and founder of the Metropolitan Opera of Bangkok. Note to Journalists: you are invited to attend the observance on 2 October, starting at 10:30, at the UN Conference Centre, Rajdamnern Nok Avenue. A programme is attached. In order to facilitate your entrance, and due to limited parking space, we would appreciate it if you could please confirm your attendance together with your transportation details (plate number, make, model & colour) to [email protected] or fax: 02 288 1052. For more information, please contact: Brian Thomson, UN Information Services Bangkok Tel: +(66-2) 288-1869, Fax: +(66-2) 288-1052 E-mail: [email protected]