BY A STAFF REPORTER

Kathmandu, Dec. 10: On the occasion of World Human Rights Day, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said that peace and human rights belong together — as the founders of the United Nations.

“They were determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, and to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights,” Secretary General noted.

It is noteworthy to be recalled that on the very day, Secretary General Annan was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his and UN’s outstanding contribution in restoring peace across the world.

“Widespread violations of human rights in any state are a danger signal and they warns us that conflict is on the horizon. Only if we heed this early warning and take early action to uphold human right, can we save the people of the State — and often its neighbours too — from the scourge of war,” reads Annan’s message on the occasion.

He further said, “In today’s interconnected world, where conflict in one country can have repercussion for another far away, we must keep this in mind more than ever.”

And as we unite to take action against terrorism, let us remember that the human rights we are defending are universal, he said.

“Let us resolve to treat all men and women on this planet – whatever their race, creed or nationality- as fellow members of human family, whose destiny we share,” Annan conveyed in the message.