Secretary-General, at Peace March in Nation’s Capital, Applauds El Salvador for Overcoming Differences, Pledges United Nations Support for Justice

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the March for Life, Peace and Justice, held in San Salvador today:

Es para mí un gran honor participar en este importante evento hoy.  [It is a great honour for me to participate in today’s important event.]

Deseo compartir un mensaje de esperanza con todos ustedes:  Juntos es posible.  [I wish to share a message of hope with all of you:  Together, we can.]

Together, we can live in peace.  Together, we can defeat fear and build bridges.  Together, we can promote human rights and justice.  The United Nations will accompany you on this path.

I was so honoured to be in El Salvador earlier this year to celebrate the Anniversary of the Peace Accords.  I said that El Salvador is an example for the world.  You overcame differences and chose peace.  Of course, difficult challenges remain — particularly crime and violence.

By coming together today, you are showing a real determination to transform.  Building a future of peace, citizen security and prosperity for all is in your hands, and starts today.

Monsignor Romero said that “peace is the generous, tranquil contribution of all, to the good of all”.  Let us take this lesson to heart and march together for life, peace and justice.