Secretary-General Calls Nowruz ‘an Inspiration’ to More Just, Durable Recovery from Pandemic, in Message for International Day

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the International Day of Nowruz, observed on 20 March:

Each year, Nowruz marks a new beginning.  Last year, the Nowruz celebration coincided with the early days of an unprecedented and devastating global pandemic.  This year, the Nowruz spirit is more vital than ever.

Solidarity between communities and generations is more crucial than ever.  Our promise in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to leave no one behind is more essential than ever.  Today, we can start to see light at the end of the tunnel.

As the world comes together to defeat COVID-19, Nowruz serves as an inspiration to recover and rebuild in a more just and durable way, in harmony with nature.

I offer my best wishes to everyone marking Nowruz.  May this day advance happiness, health and harmony to all.