Istanbul, Turkiye – UPF-Turkiye hosted its second Ambassador for Peace Forum on the Alliance of Civilizations on December 15, 2024. The discussion focused on the issue of migration. Mr. Binod Paudel, president of UPF-Turkiye, opened the program with welcoming remarks and introduced all the guests. Ms. Mirei Morita served as moderator.
Following the screening of a video from the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Prof. Dr. Kemal Yildirim gave a presentation entitled “Immigrants, Emigrants, Refugees and Citizenship in Today’s World.” He emphasized the importance of the UNAOC, its contributions, challenges and opportunities. In his view, the best way to establish harmony between immigrants and local people is through education, seminars, and conferences. Through such programs, he said, they can see the good in each other and how both contribute to society's economic and social balance.
Mr. Yoshihiro Yamazaki, coordinator of the International Association of Academicians for Peace (IAAP) for Europe and the Middle East, gave a presentation on ambassadors for peace, the UNAOC and the UPF principles of peace. He strongly encouraged ambassadors for peace, leaders and participants to practice the principles of peace in their daily lives, with their families and at work.
He also stressed the need to involve religious leaders in the Middle East peace process. He suggested that the UNAOC approach could be effective in places like Syria and Lebanon, where religious and cultural differences create tensions among the population. Mr. Yamazaki encouraged Turkish citizens to lead this peace process in the Middle East.
A lively discussion followed. The participants appreciated both presentations and responded with numerous questions and suggestions. The program concluded with singing by young participants, and refreshments.