KUALA LUMPUR—The 2013 Global Peace Convention kicked off in Kuala Lumpur on December 6 with a call from GPF chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon for the establishment of a faith-based Peace Council at the United Nations as a major initiative to meet the global challenge of identity-based conflict.

Bishop Sunday Onuoha, Executive Director of the Nigerian Interfaith Action Association (top) and Dr. Marsudi Syuhud, General Secretary of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization.

“Today, religious identities are regional in scope and appeal, spreading far beyond national boundaries,” he explained. That is something the existing UN is not well equipped to deal with and that a religious peace council could remedy.”

The Peace Council was part of a broader proposal for creating an international movement of interfaith cooperation to counter the threat of conflict on a global scale instigated by radical politicized versions of faith traditions. “The universal principles and shared values expressed in the world’s faith traditions … offer the antidote to the threat of global religious war,” Dr. Moon said.

The Convention opening addressed the three-day convention theme: “Unity in Diversity: Building Social Cohesion for Sustainable Peace through Universal Aspirations, Principles, and Values.” Participants from more than 40 nations observed a moment of silence for the passing of Nelson Mandela a few hours earlier while speakers reflected on the impact of his life which reached far beyond the usual boundaries of politics to embrace former enemies. Dr. Manu Chandaria called him “the heart of Africa” and said the continent was “poorer today without him.”

The Convention was greeted on behalf of Malaysian Prime Minister Najib, by Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, Minister of the Department of National Unity and Integration, which co-hosted the event. “Diversity is a big part of Malaysia’s DNA,” he said, quoting Prime Minister Najib. He called diversity a “blessing not a curse” and said that Malaysians were bound together by respect for their differences.

“The universal principles and shared values expressed in the world’s faith traditions … offer the antidote to the threat of global religious war.”

At the same time, he acknowledged that this idyllic picture was threatened by the unpredictability of politics. Religious bigotry and political name calling threatened the fabric of respect. He singled out the use of social media in particular to sow resentment and spread religious hatred.

“We have a moral responsibility to preserve our unity for future generations,” he concluded. “If we play politics with our future we will destroy what we have built.”

Former president Vinicio Cerezo of Guatemala (1986-91) and the first democratically elected president after 36 years of military dictatorship recounted the course to bring peace and democracy to his country and then peace to the Central American region. Wanting to strengthen the roots of democracy in the region led him into partnership with the Global Peace Foundation.

Out of the relationship the Latin American Presidential Mission has emerged, now comprising 20 former presidents from the region. They work to strengthen democratic principles and practices and to forge better relations with the United States.

Dr. Manu Chandaria, chairman and CEO of the Comcraft group highlighted the problems facing young people in Africa. He said that five million young people in Kenya with college or high school education cannot find jobs and commended GPF for providing a platform that nurtures a culture of service and volunteerism through initiatives such as the Africa Peace Service Corps.

He noted that Africa was rich in resources – in land, minerals, and, most of all, human resources. There were many hard-working people, yet a country like Kenya, which 50 years ago had a GDP similar to Malaysia, had now been left far behind. “What Africa lacks,” he said, “was transformative leadership.”

Paraguayan National Senator Lillian Samaniego (top) and Hajiya Mrs. Amina Sambo, wife of the Nigerian vice-president and founder of the NGO I Care – Women and Youth Initiative.

Hajiya Mrs. Amina Sambo, wife of the Nigerian vice-president and founder of the NGO I Care – Women and Youth Initiative, is the patron of the recently established Nigeria chapter of Global Peace Women. She said she had been inspired to partner with the Global Peace Foundation by Surah 49:13 in the Qu’ran that says “we have made you nations and tribes so that you may know one another.”

A second convening in the morning, “Universal Principles and Shared Values as the Basis for Unity and Diversity,” drew suitably diverse panelists, including Paraguayan National Senator Lilian Samaniego, Bishop Sunday Onuoha, Executive Director of the Nigerian Interfaith Action Association, Tan Sri Razali Ismail, Chairman of the Global Movement of Moderates Foundation from Malaysia, and Dr. Marsudi Syuhud, General Secretary of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization with more than 70 million members.

Sen. Samaniego noted the emerging role of women in leadership, “unimaginable in earlier generations but now becoming a reality,” and she urged that women who do assume leadership will send a message of tolerance and respect that must begin within the family.

“We can talk about shared values among those who are prosperous but we must not forget those who are marginalized, people who live on contaminated lands, who drink polluted water.”

Dr. Syuhud said unity in diversity was not simply an abstract idea in Indonesia but a principle of Indonesian nationhood. With thousands of islands, 737 local languages, and every major faith tradition, religious and cultural diversity is “a grace bestowed by God” and that NU was taking on “a singular role of promoting tolerance and respect for differences.” He outlined many steps that were mandated in Quranic teaching that positively affirm the diversity of human culture, tradition and faith as an means to “know one another.”

Bishop Onuoha spoke briefly but delivered a poignant film message on the deep respect religious leaders are held in Nigeria and the important ways in which Christians and Muslims in the nation of 170 million are collaborating in the fight against the real enemy—the mosquito, the spreader of malaria.

Tan Sri Razali Ismail said it was inspiring to hear about the human quest for peace and unity amidst diversity. “But when dealing with the reality of how things really are we come up against some difficult problems,” he added. “Economic theories and good intentions have not been able to reach many still living in abject policy and repressed by political violence. Is there compassion enough in national policy to deal with marginalized?

He said the criminal underworld was more sophisticated is Southeast Asia than anywhere, with human trafficking and other forms of oppression flourishing. “You think it is a Hollywood movie, but it is not,” he told participants. “We can talk about shared values among those who are prosperous but we must not forget those who are marginalized, people who live on contaminated lands, who drink polluted water.”

He concluded with an appeal for more committed and higher caliber leadership. Dependence on government is clearly not enough, he said, and it was time to agitate “from the bottom up” for reform and effective solutions to bring medicines and other necessities to the world’s marginalized.

The Global Peace Convention concludes on December 7 with an Awards Gala recognizing leaders who have contributed to peace, interfaith cooperation, and human development.

See more at: http://www.globalpeace.org/newsapp/global-peace-convention-calls-for-interfaith-cooperation-to-advance-social-cohesion

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Members of the Latin American Presidential Mission, former presidents (left to right) Alvaro Colom and Vinicio Cerezo of Guatemala, Ernesto Samper of Columbia. Carlos Mesa of Bolivia and Juan Carlos Wasmosy of Paraguay.

Five former presidents, members of the Latin American Presidential Mission , demonstrated their continued commitment to public service, offering their experience and insights during the special sessions of the international conference on “Governance, Ethics and Development”, held in Asuncion, Paraguay on June 11. The Latin American Presidential Mission was a co-convener of the conference.

The conference highlighted Paraguay as the foreground for Latin American growth. Korean businessmen from banks, investment firms, and construction companies attended to consider prospects of furthering Paraguay-Korea trade relations.

 “Development and Democratic Sustainability vs. Populism”

In the session entitled “Development and Democratic Sustainability vs. Populism” former presidents Carlos Mesa of Bolivia and Alvaro Colom of Guatemala candidly described the challenges of establishing political stability and development. They emphasized the importance of republican values and service to the people.

Former President Mesa warned against constructing systems of power based on one person. “When the political process is a person, when a person is revolution, is change, is legitimacy, democratic institutions are weakened or destroyed completely. It is a terribly destructive factor,” said President Mesa according to ABC Color.

President Mesa said that the presence of what he called “neo-populous states” in Latin America does not signify a trend towards authoritarianism. Instead he observes that Latin America “is progressively strengthening its democratic mechanisms of reform and republican values.”

ABC Color reported President Colom describing the significant progress that Guatemala has made. Ten years ago, it would have been unthinkable to have investments from Chile, Brazil and Peru like there are today. President Colom commented that healthy populism works for the citizens: to reduce poverty, improve health coverage, education, and care for the young. However, populism instated for personal electoral interests is damaging.

Former senator and current Minister of the Court of Accounts of Uruguay, Ruperto Enzo Long, who also sat on the panel, stressed that ethics must underlie all policies for economic and social development. In his home country, policies have not closed the gap between rich and poor by stimulating a vibrant middle class, instead cash transfer programs have stagnated generations of citizens in poverty.

 “Economic Integration with Ethics without Ideological Prejudices”

Former president Juan Carlos Wasmosy urged for regional economic integration based on shared interests rather than competing national interests and ideological differences in the session entitled “Economic Integration with Ethics without Ideological Prejudices”

UltimaHora reported President Wasmosy calling Paraguay’s recent exclusion from MERCOSUR, a regional trade organization, “selfish” and based on “meaningless ideological disputes.” He said, “Without freedom there can be no trade integration.” He called for greater regional cooperation based on shared values and common interests.

 “The democratic system must be functional and deliver the promise of the citizens’ well-being. Therefore it cannot be ideological. It is permissible for political parties to have ideology, but the democratic system must transcend the right or left; it must be fair and functional.” Former President Vinicio Cerezo, Guatemala

According to UPI Español, fellow panelists, Brazilian Deputy Nelson Maquezelli, assured Paraguayan leaders that Brazil is working to receive Paraguay back into MERCOSUR “with the red carpet”.

The session also examined the challenges of ethical and sustainable economic growth, particularly the challenge of conserving natural resources for future generations while meeting the urgent needs of the most vulnerable in Latin America. Conclusively the session recognized the need to identify the unique strengths of each nation while generating a common regional and global vision upon which long-lasting economic relations can grow.

“Economic Investment for Democratic Stability and Social Development in Latin America,”

Members of the Latin American Presidential Mission stressed the importance of ethics in governance and development.

Former presidents Vinicio Cerezo of Guatemala and Ernesto Samper of Columbia spoke during the session entitled “Economic Investment for Democratic Stability and Social Development in Latin America,” with Gonzalo Quintana, former senator of Paraguay.

President Cerezo said, “The democratic system must be functional and deliver the promise of the citizens’ well-being. Therefore it cannot be ideological. It is permissible for political parties to have ideology, but the democratic system must transcend the right or left; it must be fair and functional.”

President Semper stressed the need for a return to ethics in politics. Politics, he said, should be a dialectic of ideas discussed before the people, not a monopoly of one ideology.

Both former presidents stressed that democratic stability will open doors to international trade and investment and economic progress in Latin America.

The members of the Latin American Presidential Mission have pledged  to secure better hemispheric cooperation and regional development, and put forth  their experience, knowledge and testimony to do so. They have reached a consensus that these goals can only be achieved by upholding certain universal principles and values.

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Global Peace Foundation Chairman Hyun Jin Preston Moon addresses a conference on Governance, Ethics, and Development in Asunción. – See more at: http://www.globalpeace.org/newsapp/paraguay-conference-draws-former-latin-american-heads-of-state-for-dialogue-on-governance-ethics-and?A=SearchResult&SearchID=7265552&ObjectID=6726448&ObjectType=35#sthash.0F5uLj7g.dpuf

Through July and August, 8 Latin and Central American countries celebrate their independence day. The recent conference on “Governance, Ethics, and Development” affirmed that Latin America is on a verge of an era of stability and economic opportunity.

In his address at the conference opening plenary, Dr. Moon observed that although both Americas were settled by explorers carrying dreams of spiritual and economic opportunities, the stories of North and South America “unfolded differently with real qualitative and quantitative consequences for their peoples.”

The first 13 states that became the United States of America began as British colonies. Riding the waves of the Renaissance and Reformation, Great Britain had made strides to becoming a constitutional government that recognized the rights of every free Englishmen. The founding fathers of the United States drew upon these precedents to embark on their bold experiment: to build a nation that recognized and protected the rights and value endowed by the Creator to all men, a nation ruled by the people and for the people.

South America, however, took on the culture and political structures of the Iberian Peninsula. It became a bastion of old Europe; and to this day, feudalistic remnants are present: small elites control the social, political, religious and economic lives of the nation, with an ever present gap between the rich and poor.

A Latin American awakening would shake off these outdated vestments and make way for nations to emerge centered on time-tested principles such as God-given universal human rights and living for others.

These values are not foreign, to Central and South America.  Many nations are deeply spiritual, recognizing the pervading presence of God in their private and public life. Nations like Paraguay have embraced their indigenous and immigrant cultures.

Dr. Moon urged former, current and incoming presidents of Latin America to forge a road map for national development in Latin America based on values and principles.  As numerous countries celebrate their independence days, it is an appropriate  to affirm the core principles upon which they can and open an era of new social and economic opportunities.

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June 12, 2013| Asuncion, Paraguay

Global Peace Foundation Chairman Hyun Jin Preston
Moon addresses a conference on Governance, Ethics, and Development in Asunción.

Stressing their shared moral and spiritual roots, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon called for closer cooperation between the nations of North and South America, in Asuncion, Paraguay, on June 11 2013. “Leaders in both the U.S. and in Latin America need to understand the import and opportunity that can be found in the mutual relationships of the Americas,” he told participants at the international conference on “Government, Ethics, and Development.”

The one-day conference was sponsored by Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Soñada, a GPF-supported research institute in Asunción, and

Global Peace Foundation Paraguay, with support of the Latin American Presidential Mission, Esquipulas Foundation of Guatemala, the Leadership Conference of Uruguay, and others. The conference included the participation of former Presidents Juan Carlos Wasmosy of Paraguay, Vinicio Cerezo and Alvaro Colom of Guatemala, Ernesto Samper of Colombia, and Carlos Mesa of Bolivia.

The program presented sessions of the challenge of consolidating democracy in Latin America; economic investment to advance stable democratic governance and social development; the tension between democracy and populism; and economic investment to moderate conflict and instability.

“Enduring relationships that yield good results must be based upon ethical principles and shared values, for these provide the foundation that fosters mutual respect, collaborative efforts, and shared benefits.”

He stressed the need to seriously and comprehensively address issues such as security and social inequity in the country. “Many people are looking to Paraguay after years of international isolation,” Dr. Altamirano said, “and for the first time this forces the country to think strategically.” Dr. Jose Altamirano, Director of Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Soñada, said that the incoming government will need to emphasize effectiveness and efficiency as an “inevitable direction, because otherwise efforts disperse.”

Above: Former Heads on State from four Latin American
countries addressed the conference, which drew participation
from government leaders, scholars, and business professionals.

In his remarks, Dr. Moon also recalled his experience among the Paraguayan people, especially fireside talks at camps on a cattle drive through Alto Paraguay amid some of the poorest towns and indigenous communities. “Paraguay’s history reflects the heart of a peace-loving, inclusive people who, unlike other nations in the Americas, embraced the native population, even adopting their language of Guarani as part of the national heritage,” he said.

The GPF Chairman further underscored the importance of the founding of the Latin American Presidential Mission, comprised of nearly 20 former Heads of State, at the Global Peace Convention in Atlanta in December 2012. He said the Presidential Mission is committed to strengthening relations between the North, Central and South America and the Caribbean as well as promoting a hemispheric spiritual awakening centered on universal principles and values.

“Leaders in both the U.S. and in Latin America need to understand the import and opportunity that can be found in the mutual relationships of the Americas,” Dr. Moon said. “Most importantly, enduring relationships that yield good results must be based upon ethical principles and shared values, for these provide the foundation that fosters mutual respect, collaborative efforts, and shared benefits.”

Visit: www.globalpeace.org for the full story.

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Tuesday, June 11, 2013| Asunción- Paraguay

Dr. Moon calls on political, business, media and civil society leaders to spark a hemispheric movement for peace.

Esteemed former presidents, dignitaries and ladies and gentlemen, it is my distinct honor to greet you in this beautiful land of Paraguay—a nation which holds a special place in my heart—and to share a few words with this prominent gathering of national and international political, social, religious and business leaders.

It would take too long to mention each of you by name, but I would like to give special recognition to the former presidents who took the time out of their busy schedules to be with us today as special representatives of this distinguished and august group of leaders:

Let us express our appreciation to Presidents Juan Carlos Wasmosy of Paraguay, Vinicio Cerezo and Alvaro Colom of Guatemala, Ernesto Samper of Colombia, and Carlos Mesa of Bolivia for joining us here today.

Paraguay’s Time to Shine

Since my last visit here a year ago, “much water has flowed under the bridge,” as the popular Spanish saying goes. Despite serious difficulties, the interim government held general elections for a new president and administration on April 21^st, which was acknowledged by numerous international observers as a fully legitimate and properly conducted election. This is a time for Paraguay to shine.

Today, there is a duly elected government that will soon come into office, peacefully and with unquestioned legitimacy. I see this as a great moral and political victory for the people of Paraguay, clear evidence that true republican ideals and the first principles of a well-functioning democracy can take hold in this region.

Now, however, Paraguayans must look ahead and build upon their achievements by developing a proactive road map to unleash intrinsic social and economic opportunities. Paraguay has always had great potential, yet, was unable to harness that potential due to the political challenges it has faced in the early years. But, with the precedent of the recent elections, it stands on a new footing of legitimacy that is gaining recognition from the international community. I believe this is a time for Paraguay to shine.

Differing Heritages of North and South America

Today’s conference on “Governance, Ethics and Development” is of great and timely significance for Paraguay, this region and the entire hemisphere. As we in the West know, the American hemisphere’s unique contribution to modern global history would not have been possible without the paradigm shifts in worldviews brought forth by the Renaissance and Reformation in Europe.

Many who made the long voyage across the Atlantic came with hopes of a new beginning filled with opportunities in this new land. Yet, over the course of several centuries, the stories of North America and South America and Latin America unfolded very differently with real qualitative and quantitative consequences for their people, although they were all of primarily Christian and European descent.

The fundamental difference lay in their heritage. North America was shaped by the British legacy, which paved the way for the first constitutional government, and the recognition of “fundamental rights” of all Englishmen.

On the other hand, the Central and Southern regions of the Americas were largely influenced by the more feudal political-religious traditions of the Iberian Peninsula that remained a bastion and champion of old Europe.

Thus, the impulses for fundamental reform and changes that the Renaissance and Reformation brought to Great Britain did not materialize in Spain and Portugal.

Naturally, this had a great impact on the relative developments and history of the aforementioned regions and their respective national revolutions for independence from their European progenitors.

Therefore, although the South American revolutions in the 19^th century strove to establish regional political blocs similar to that in North America, they were unable to do so.

Latin America fragmented into many independent autonomous nation states that were still heavily influenced by the old systems and traditions of the Iberian Peninsula.

Even today, Latin America struggles with this legacy, since relatively small elites control the political, social, religious and economic lives of their nations, thus creating the circumstances of discontent in which radical ideals such as communism and liberation theology have emerged and taken root. Whereas many developing democracies around the world have dealt with the inequities of feudal societies, Latin America still faces that challenge.

That is why I am so excited about the transformations taking place here in Paraguay.

The “Womb” of Latin America’s Rebirth

Ever since I first visited this nation, I have always believed that Paraguay, given its geographic centrality as well as its unique historic and cultural roots, could and would be the metaphoric “womb” of a rebirth of Latin America.

Its history reflects the heart of a peace-loving, inclusive people who, unlike other nations in the Americas, embraced the native population, even adopting their language of “Guarani” as part of the national heritage.  But of all and most importantly, Paraguayans have always recognized and honored God in their families, communities, and in the life of their nation.

It was for this reason that I held the first Global Peace Festival here in Paraguay in 2008 during a period of immense internal political strife for this country.

I emphasized the importance of moral and innovative leadership and the need to set the proper precedents for this young republic to continue on a path toward the fulfillment of its great potential.

Dr. Moon and fellow cowboys sit around the fire during a cattle drive in 2008 across the Chaco region of Paraguay.

I still remember the one and a half hour debate I had with then President Nicanor Duarte on the importance of vision, principles and values and the need to set the proper legacy of a peaceful democratic transition in order for this fragile democracy to survive.

I also recall my speech at the National Congress where I once again I emphasized the points I made to the president as well as challenged the Congress to build a new country centered upon universal spiritual principles and values, and the vision of “One Family under God.”

My fondest memories come from my direct experiences with the Paraguayan people. I am told that the cattle drive I conducted with a group of young Paraguayan elites through the Chaco that same year is still talked about today.

I remember well the fireside talks I had with those young men as we camped each night on our journey through Alto Paraguay amid some of the poorest towns and indigenous communities.

I also vividly recall the transformation in them as we rode into the town of Maria Auxilidora and had the privilege to be offered a humble, yet delicious meal by its inhabitants. Many of those young men had never had such an experience, and I witnessed the social divide that had separated the rich and poor of this nation for centuries disintegrate in the face of our common humanity.

There, I saw the greatness of the Paraguayan people and the bright future for this nation if it was encouraged to dream big, to think big and to act big.

Upon my return to Asuncion after the cattle drive, I had the opportunity to speak to 30,000 young people at the first Global Peace Festival in Olympia Stadium.

There, I challenged them to dream the greatest dream of all and to build “One Family under God” and to take ownership for the future destiny of their nation. To my delight, the response was overwhelming.

I specifically recall the immense excitement, energy and sense of hope that shaped that evening events. The whole nation was being energized to take charge of its destiny and its effects were palpable.

GPF in Paraguay

In 2009, we launched the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) in Paraguay. Since then, GPF has been advancing character education programs in schools throughout the country in cooperation with the Ministry of Education.

We organize youth volunteers to do social service work such as plant trees, clean parks, and paint schools. In addition, we are promoting the advancement of women through our annual “Living for the Sake of Others” award as well as other programs which allow women to contribute directly to their communities.

In the town of Puerto Casado, GPF has worked unceasingly to provide relief to the townspeople in the form of medical and dental care, educational programs, donations of food, clothing, blankets, school and sports equipment and so much more.

Shortly thereafter, we established the Association for the Development of the Chaco, which has set up a communal vegetable farm, a major fish farm, and a bakery, providing jobs on a rotational basis to hundreds of people in Alto Paraguay and helping to improve their diet. All these efforts were to create a stable way of life for the people of Alto Paraguay, that they could take pride in and responsibility for.

Next, in 2010, recognizing the need for a think-tank which could help to make a road-map for Paraguay’s future development, I encouraged the founding of the “Institute for the Development of Thought: Patria Sonada (IDPPS) under the able leadership of the Honorable Dr. Jose Altamirano.

The Presidential Mission is committed to strengthening relations between the North, Central and South America and the Caribbean as well as promoting a hemispheric spiritual awakening centered on universal principles and values.The Institute has achieved a great deal in a short time, especially through its work on a development model for the vast, poverty-stricken Chaco region based on mobilizing public and private partnerships.

In addition, besides a number of local conferences, seminars and workshops, IDPPS has successfully carried out or partnered in three major Global Peace Leadership Conferences – in Asuncion in 2010, in Brasilia in 2011, and in Atlanta, in 2012. Each of these conferences also had the invaluable support of the Esquipulas Foundation of Guatemala, led by our illustrious former President Vinicio Cerezo, and the National Leadership Conference of Uruguay.

The Latin American Presidential Mission

At the Global Peace Convention in Atlanta last year, GPF, in alliance with these three prestigious institutions, launched the Latin American Presidential Mission, comprised of nearly, I wrote 20, but I guess it’s 19 former Heads of State.

The Atlanta Declaration 2012 launched the Latin American Presidential Mission to promote hemispheric cooperation with North and South America under the names of 19 former heads of state.

The Presidential Mission is committed to strengthening relations between the North, Central and South America and the Caribbean as well as promoting a hemispheric spiritual awakening centered on universal principles and values.

Another focus areas of the Latin American Presidential Mission is trade and investment, and on this trip I have brought with me a group of Korean investors to see firsthand the enormous opportunities that are now opening up for this country and region.

Could you please rise, our Korean business group. Please, give them a round of applause.

That’s not all, we also brought along because the story of Paraguay needs to be brought around the world. So that they can report about the transformations that are happening in this region of the world, so distant from Asia, yet so close in terms of their experiences. Could we also have the journalists from the Korean media stand up.

Finally, the most important area of focus for the Latin American Presidential Mission is in the area of education, given the enormous untapped potential of Latin American youth.

A huge part of that task involves a broad form of educational initiatives targeting moral and civic development as much as practical skills and knowledge.

With proper education that emphasizes vision, principles and moral values, a new generation of leaders will set a new paradigm of leadership far removed from the continent’s feudal systems and traditions and its subsequent problems with corruption.

As President Carlos Antonio Lopez, the first president of Paraguay, said, “Schools are the best monuments that we can offer to freedom.” In other words, education should be fundamental and total, transforming the cultural and historic underpinnings of the region’s challenges and providing equal opportunity for all.

I’m sure that if Paraguay manifests this kind of ethical and moral revival, the construction of a new Republic that gives legal certainty, opportunity and security to all its citizens as well as foreign investors will lead to a tremendous blessing of peace and prosperity for this nation.

Entrepreneurs will pour in to invest long term, and the doors will open wide to improvements in infrastructure, better ways of production, new emerging industries and expanded uses of Paraguay’s abundant and diverse energy resources and reserves.

All of this in turn will allow this landlocked country to reach out beyond its borders and connect to the larger world, not only its close neighbors within the MERCOSUR alliance, but also, looking towards the Pacific to the alliance recently formed by Chile, Peru, Colombia and Mexico, and beyond, to countries as far away as Korea and the rest of East Asia.

A Spiritual Movement in Paraguay and the Americas

What I have shared with you today comes straight from my heart.

I love this country and wish to see it prosper. I hope you will think big and never give up your dreams.

You have overcome many obstacles throughout your history, including devastating wars in the 19^th and 20^th centuries.

Many used to think that Paraguay was the “basket-case” of Latin America.

They even believed that this nation would revert to totalitarianism due to recent political challenges. Yet, here you are. You have overcome great adversity and are still standing tall, poised to grasp the future with all the hunger and hope of an undying champion.

In conclusion, let me say that the vision of “One Family under God” can inspire and motivate a spiritual movement of renewal here in Paraguay and throughout the Americas.

My hope is that this conference will serve as a catalyst to spark that movement to life. I challenge each and every one of you, especially our esteemed presidents with us here today, to take up the mantle of moral and innovative leadership and to build a legacy of the highest ideals, for our communities, nations, and the entire human family.

I urge you all to join with me in this great endeavor, and work in you respective fields to secure that bright future for Paraguay, and all of your countries in Latin America,  throughout the region and this hemisphere.

Thank you very much for your commitment and may God bless each of you and your families.

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Korea’s leading magazine Shin Dong-A, published a ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 in its New Year edition.The third section reported the historic launching of the Latin American Presidential Mission under the names of 19 former heads of state from Latin America. The January issue also ran the announcement of  Park Geun-hye’s presidential win, first woman president of the Republic of Korea.

See the original article in Korean.

Below is the unofficial English translation.

The Atlanta Declaration 2012 launched the Latin American Presidential Mission to promote hemispheric cooperation with North and South America under the names of 19 former heads of state.

GPC Atlanta 2012 Presents a New Paradigm for Global Peace

By Young Chul Choi ftdog@donga.com
Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Former Heads of State from North and South America Promote a Vision of Hemispheric Cooperation for Mutual Prosperity

During GPC Atlanta, 10 former Heads of State from 8 South American countries and delegations from 40-nations convened to launch a mission committed to a hemispheric Great Awakening in North and South America. An additional 8 former Heads of State from South America, who were not present, sent video messages of support. Together they launched a historic declaration, the Atlanta Declaration for Hemispheric Cooperation, resolving to use their past experience and leadership to work for the mutual prosperity of North and South America.

Based on its substantial Christian foundation, the American hemisphere has a common ethic.  However, North and South have walked disparate paths, harboring a protracted love-and-hate relationship. For example, the phrase ‘Down with American Imperialism’ became popular when anti-U.S. sentiments in South America peaked during the Falklands Wars, a territorial dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom (U.K.) when the U.S. sided with the U.K.

Over the past decade, vast numbers of Latin Americans have crossed the border into the United States to pursue the “American Dream”. Today, the Hispanic population in the U.S. has surpassed Blacks to become the largest minority. No longer can it be politically and economically disregarded. Resolving the discrimination and contempt towards the Hispanic population is critical to resolving the problem between North and South America.

The United States can no longer ignore the importance of Latin America. As the economic recession in the United States continues since the financial crisis in 2008, the fast-growing Latin American economic region could offer a way forward. Circumstances have prepared North and South America to redefine their relationship and secure peace and equality in the American hemisphere. In his keynote address at the GPC opening plenary, Dr. Moon called for a Hemispheric Great Awakening through North and South America based on a consensus of common spiritual values.   Dr. Moon noted, “North and South America have shared values that emerge from their common Christian heritage. Cooperation and unity should be based on these universal principles. This is how the western hemisphere can recover its moral authority and make positive impact around the world.”

Over the past two years, GPF in Latin America has promoted moral and innovative leadership and increased regional and hemispheric cooperation based on shared values. The results are reflected in two significant declarations, the Asuncion Declaration issued during the 2010 Global Peace Leadership Conference in Paraguay and the Brasilia Declaration pronounced in Brazil during the 2011 Global Peace Leadership Conference.  The Americas Summit commenced at The Carter Center and was integrated within GPC Atlanta. The summit sought to discover avenues for improved hemispheric relations based on shared values and common challenges for lasting peace and mutual prosperity for North and South America..

“the unity and integration of the Americas must be based on the recognition and respect of unique national and cultural identities, and that efforts should be directed at obtaining not personal advantages but a common advantage.” ~Atlanta Declaration for Hemispheric Cooperation The summit concluded with the establishment of the Latin American Presidential Mission. The declaration was published in the name of 19 former presidents. Built upon the recognition of the vision of “One Family Under God”, it affirms, “that the unity and integration of the Americas must be based on the recognition and respect of unique national and cultural identities, and that efforts should be directed at obtaining not personal advantages but a common advantage.”

Former Guatemalan president Vinicio Cerezo said, ”A leader has to have a special character, with thought and skill, but also deep moral conviction to follow a path marked by his principles.” He added, “In international relations and politics, the leader of each nation should not abandon his ethical values under any circumstances.”

 “The commitment of the United States is to the belief that fairness, not force should lie at the heart of our dealings with the nations of the world. If any agreement is to last, it must serve the best interest of both nations.” ~Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter

Dr. Jennifer McCoy, director of the Carter Center’s Americas Program, stressed ethics among nations quoting former President Jimmy Carter. “The commitment of the United States is to the belief that fairness, not force should lie at the heart of our dealings with the nations of the world. If any agreement is to last, it must serve the best interest of both nations.” Meanwhile, business leaders from around the world participated in the Global Peace Business Forum to discuss how trade and commerce can generate economic prosperity in North and South America, Africa, and the Iraq-Kurdish region. They agreed that the crisis of modern capitalism rooted in corruption and greed can be resolved through moral values and principles in business. Dr. Manu Chandaria, CEO of one of Africa’s largest businesses, Comcraft Group, received resounding applause when he said, “To offer economic opportunity to Africa is the realistic means to establishing world peace.”.

See all four sections of Shin Dong-A feature on GPC 2012.

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Former President of Paraguay, Juan Carlos Wasmosy, opened the Americas Summit by stating, “What is happening before my eyes here in Atlanta is a dream come true.”

Presidents Wasmosy, Lacalle and Cerezo spearheaded the Latin American Presidential Mission launched at the Global Peace Convention 2012. In 2010 they signed the Asuncion Declaration, and have worked together since.

His journey to Atlanta began in October 2010, at the first Global Peace Leadership Convention in Paraguay. At that convention, Global Peace Foundation founder Dr. Hyun Jin Moon challenged Latin American leaders to “pave the path to peace and reconciliation in this hemisphere by becoming a leader in the global peace process through the vision of ‘one family under God’.”

Dr. Moon referenced the United States to stress that peace and stability are not determined by the economic or political structure of the state, but by its founding principles. The United States was founded upon a declaration that all men are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights” that supersede any man-made authority.

President Wasmosy recalls how he and a handful of others, including  Luis Alberto Lacalle (former president of Uruguay) and Vinicio Cerezo (former president of Guatemala), responded to the challenge and signed the Asunción Declaration. They affirmed their “desire to work – beyond religious, political, social, and ethnic differences – for the unity of Latin America as a continent of peace and future that can shine light in a world filled with uncertainties and confusion.”

The Declaration is constructed upon spiritual and universal “civic values and virtues,” as a means to address the social and economic issues of the region as well as build greater Latin American solidarity and hemispheric cooperation. It has become the impetus for a continental movement.

Over the next year, the Global Peace Foundation, worked together with the “Instituto de Desarrollo del Pensamiento Patria Soñada”(IDPPS), a think-tank in Paraguay, the “Esquipulas Foundation for the Intergration of Central America” based in Guatemala, and the “Uruguay Leadership Conference” gathering notable former and current national leaders who resonate with the vision elucidated in the Asuncion Declaration.

Eight former presidents from Latin America convened in Atlanta to launch the Latin American Presidential Mission. Additional support came from six additional Latin and Central American countries.

President Wasmosy recounted how his circle of friends and colleagues who shared in the dream of a Latin American revival continued to grow.

The next year, 2011, a second international conference was convened in the Brazilian capital of Brasilia. It focused on the issues of ethics, energy, and food security, emphasizing that sustainable development must be built upon ethical principles. It resulted in the Brasilia Declaration that expanded on specific points of the Asuncion Declaration and called on Latin Americans “to recognize and overcome our past mistakes and to dream again and achieve the great goals of this continent.”

Shortly thereafter, former Presidents Wasmosy, Cerezo and Lacalle met together in Paraguay with the directors of the supporting foundations and think-tanks of their respective countries and proposed the creation of the Latin American Presidential Mission to be officially founded at the Global Peace Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The mission calls upon current and former Latin American heads of state to bring their “Leadership, Testimony and Action” to secure the future of Latin America and forge greater hemispheric cooperation based on principles, values and aspirations common in both Americas.

President Wasmosy stated, “Our conscience and ideals chart the map for our lives, our families, our leaders, our nations and an ideal world.”

The Americas Summit examined the shared values of the Americas, the common challenge and need for better education, and opportunities for hemispheric integration through trade and investment.

President Mesa of Bolivia signs the Presidential Mission as President Colom from Guatemala and President Barletta of Panama look on.

On December 1^st, the Americas Summit concluded with the signing of the founding document of the Latin American Presidential Mission by eight former presidents from the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Panama, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay. They were supported by eight additional former presidents from Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, Guatemala and El Salvador who were unable to attend but sent video messages and letters of support.

It may be a “dream come true” but is also a challenge to pursue a bigger dream. Every member of the Latin American Presidential Mission is committed to “take up the mantle of moral and innovative leaders and build a legacy of the highest ideals for our communities, nations and the entire human family.”

Credits to Mr. Thomas Field, Regional Coordinator, GPF Regional Representative for Latin America

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November 29, 2012

Carter Presidential Center, Atlanta, Georgia

Nine former presidents of Latin America convened during the Global Peace Convention 2012 for the Americas Summit. They signed the Presidential Mission, committing to further hemispheric cooperation not merely based on economic and political cooperation, but on share principles and values of both North and South America to create a model  of peace for the world.

The following is the remarks by Dr. Hyun Jin Moon given at the Summit opening at the Carter Presidential Center.

A Great Spiritual Awakening in the Western Hemisphere

What a special honor it is to join in this prominent gathering of former presidents and statesmen from Latin America and the US, here at the prestigious Carter Center which itself carries on the important work of a former US president.

It would take too long to mention each one of you by name, but I especially want to salute former Presidents Juan Carlos Wasmosy of Paraguay, Luis Alberto Lacalle of Uruguay, and Vinicio Cerezo of Guatemala for their support of our work at the Global Peace Foundation over the past few years.

This meeting of leaders is of great and timely significance.

I say this because we are living at a unique moment in the history of the Americas and the world. At this time when the world’s focus is shifting towards the pan-Pacific rim region, the Western hemisphere of North, Central and South America have a vital role to play to ensure that proper principles and values, rooted in the affirmation of our spiritual nature as human beings, are not only transmitted, but become the core of any effort to spread democracy and a free market system to other nations and future generations.

The challenge before us, the moment we must seize, is an opportunity to kindle the fire of a great hemispheric awakening rooted in spiritual values.

It is important to recognize that  the task ahead of us is not merely the promotion of democracy and capitalism.

Why do I say this?

Because it was not the democratic process itself, nor the free market system alone that shaped America into the nation it is today. Rather it was its underlying principles and values that enabled it to become a great nation.

We here in the Americas, must be anchored in  spiritually oriented principles and values in order to present a counterweight to what some emergent states are offering today.

 

Nine former presidents of Latin America signed the Latin American Presidential Mission. (Left to right: H.E. Alvaro Colom, Pres. of Guatemala (2008-2012), H.E. Carlos Mesa, Pres. Republic of Bolivia (2003-2005), H.E. Nicolas Ardito Barletta, Pres. Panama (1984-1985), H.E. Juan Carlos Wasmosy, Pres. Paraguay (1993-1998). Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Chairman, Global Peace Foundation, Mrs. Jun Sook Moon, Global Peace Woman, H.E. Gustavo Noboa, Pres. Ecuador (2000-2003), H.E. Hipolito Mejia, Pres. Dominican Republic (2000-2004), H.E. Luis Lacalle, Pres. Uruguay (1990-1995), H.E. Vinicio Cerezo, Pres. Guatemala (1986-1991), Mr. Thomas Field, Global Peace Foundation, South America)

Spiritual roots: North, Central, and South America

There are many who stress the differences between the United States and Latin America. But to focus on our differences is a serious mistake.

However, if we embrace our commonalities, we can come to a proper understanding and appreciation of our differences.  The Americas, as a whole, have significant historic and geographic connections.

The Americas are also experiencing substantially expanding ethnic ties. The Hispanic community in the U.S. produced the largest minority voting bloc in the recent elections here, and made a significant impact on key races throughout the nation. Also, a considerable portion of income produced by the hard work of this community is sent through remittances to their families in their countries of origin, which has a huge economic impact on many nations.

The bonds between the United States and Latin America are more important than ever.

Leaders in both the U.S .and in Latin America need to understand the import and opportunity that can be found in the mutual relationships of the Americas.

Enduring relationships that yield good results must be based upon ethical principles and shared values.  They provide the foundation that fosters mutual respect, collaborative efforts, and shared benefits.

There is broad common ground for the peoples of the Americas, and indeed all of humanity, in universal spiritual principles as conveyed in the essence of our faith traditions.

Faith in God, the Creator, was the guiding inspiration for those who pioneered the cause of independence for the Americas.

The most important expression of universal principles as the basis of human liberty is found in the Declaration of Independence.

As a “vision statement” of the United States, it asserts: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

 These lofty principles are not just applicable to the citizens of the United States; they establish the fundamental foundation for human rights and dignity for all people throughout the world.

Even our respected presidents, here with us today, have to recognize that they are first and foremost human beings with a spiritual nature, guided by principles and values.

That’s the essence of our humanity. We are moral beings guided by an ethos that has been part of our nature since human creation. The same recognition of universal, spiritual principles that extend beyond religious or philosophical differences was expressed in the words of Simon Bolivar, when he said: “Jesus, who was the light of the Earth, desired no dignity or crowns in the world; he called men his brothers and taught them about equality, about the most republican civil virtues, and commanded them to be free.”

When I toured throughout Latin America and met with presidents, parliamentarians and civil society leaders, I found the same, shared resonance with these principles as the foundation for just, prosperous and democratic societies.

The important similarities between the United States and Latin America are found in ethical, moral and civic values, in the call to patriotism, and in the understanding of the value of the family.

H.E. Colom and H.E. Cerezo look on as fellow Latin American president H.E. Mesa signs the Presidential Mission statement.

Being a man of faith, I feel the hand of Divine Providence leading us to a new era of opportunity and prosperity in the hemisphere of the Americas.

Beginning from a common ethos that honors God and the intrinsic value of all people, we should now aspire to build nations where the respect for human dignity, the love of liberty, and the accomplishment of responsible citizenship may flourish.

The challenge for us in the Western Hemisphere of North, Central, and South America, is to come together to champion these principles and values; and especially to champion the global vision of “One Family under God”. Our common heritage rooted in Christian faith strongly resonates with this universal vision. The essence of Jesus’ teaching was meant to create a new ethos based on true love which could transform cultures, societies and the world, Yet that ethos has yet to be realized, and remains as a hope and aspiration of all people.

It is for this reason that a great awakening is needed today.

So, I challenge the leadership of the Americas gathered here to not only address issues of this hemisphere that pertain to an economic, political, or diplomatic context, but also to address the need for a spiritual awakening that uplifts the shared values that can accomplish true integration and enduring development.

 

Focus of the Americas Summit

Toward the fulfillment of that goal, this hemispheric conference will analyze critical concerns and gather insights; with the contributions of the Latin American statesmen gathered here—former presidents and leaders of nations who came to share their wisdom and experience.

This Americas Summit will focus on three key issues.

1. The first is the common ethical values that should govern relations among us. I spoke on the importance of shared principles and values.

They are essential to any relationship and form the glue that binds us together.

2. The second is education as a source of values, knowledge and skills. Quality education should result in citizens of good moral character who have confidence in themselves, and are able, through critical thinking, to reach their goals.

Quality education should be an investment, a priority for any nation that seeks a bright future. It should engender objectivity, rational thought, and a willingness to participate in the practice      of good citizenship.

3. The third issue is trade and investment, necessary for the prosperity and well-being of all. Business practices must be guided by ethical standards to create societies of equity and peace.

I think most would agree that a major cause of the global recession and financial crisis can be directly attributed to the erosion of ethical principles and values.  If those in power do not regulate themselves, then any system or institution can experience corruption and eventually collapse.

We are striving to fulfill the goals articulated in the Asuncion Declaration which was adopted by former presidents and leaders at the Global Peace Foundation’s first Latin American Leadership Conference in Paraguay in 2010. Centered on this Declaration, a large number of former Latin American presidents, many of whom are with us here today, have agreed to join forces to create what will be called the “Latin American Presidential Mission”.

I applaud the commitment of this Latin American Presidential Mission in convening with such a lofty purpose.

It is a call to civic activism that draws on the experience and talent of former presidents, and is supported by other leaders from different areas of the continent.

With the slogan: Leadership, Testimony, Action, it will offer innovative perspectives to critical issues and contribute to their solutions. It will be idealistic yet realistic, going from less to more, from the grassroots to the summit.

 

Our Future: Moral and Innovative Leadership

Dr. Hyun Jin Moon urges a hemispheric great awakening at the Americas Summit Opening Session at the Carter Center.

The task we face requires the incorporation of professionals and experts in different fields, but more than that it requires our moral and innovative leadership. What do I mean by moral and innovative leadership?

First, it is leadership which promotes a “greater good” that can benefit not only the individual, but the whole society, the nation, and ultimately the world.

Such leadership must be guided by clear vision, irrevocable principles and universal values; with the breadth and depth to encompass the diversity of the human family.

Second, we need to harness innate human creativity to advance and develop the human condition. This is the innovative component of leadership.

In every culture, extraordinary men and women have propelled humanity forward in the fields of philosophy, ethics, science, sports and cultural arts, freely exercising their God-given talents even to the point of challenging existing paradigms.

With a dream of a bright future, the Global Peace Foundation, an international NGO that I chair, is leading efforts for peace based on a spiritual vision expressed in the simple but profound phrase, of “One Family under God.”

The transformative power of this vision is found in the fundamental truth that all people, regardless of race, religion, nationality, tribe or ethnicity, are spiritual beings who share a common heritage in one God or Creator.

Moral and innovative leadership provides vision and action that builds a positive legacy for the future. It recognizes that the most fundamental human problems cannot be solved by politics, diplomacy, economy, or science alone. Essentially, sustainable solutions must address root causes, and therefore must include the intrinsic spiritual dimension of the human experience. In short, political authority cannot force, nor can money buy, the virtues necessary to resolve conflicts and build moral and ethical societies.

 

A Great Awakening Starts Now

 Recognizing the growing influence of Latin American communities in North America and the growing geopolitical and geo-economic influence of Latin American nations on the global stage, I want to conclude by saying once again that this time and circumstance are ripe for calling forth a great spiritual awakening, in our hemisphere and beyond, that can summon the creativity, energy and motivation for a global ethical, social, political and economic transformation.

I firmly believe that now is the time for such transformation.

The vision of “one family under God” can inspire and motivate a spiritual peace movement that is the vanguard for this great awakening, beginning here in the Americas.  My hope is that this Americas Summit and the larger Global Peace Convention will serve as catalysts that ignite and invigorate that movement.

I challenge each of us, especially our presidents here, to take up the mantle of moral and innovative leadership, that together we can build a legacy of the highest ideals, for our communities, nations, and the entire human family.

Thank you.

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Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon touched all areas of the human experiences, and left a mark in all sectors of society.   Tributes have come from all over the world, honoring his vision, life and work. They show the  the world that show the depth and breadth of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s contribution to humanity.

Tributes

Tributes and condolences have come from around the world that show the depth and breadth of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s contribution to humanity.

Below are some notable letters.

Members of the Global Leadership Council

Roberto Andersen, President of Instituto Univérsico de Pesquisa e Educação

Oscar K. Beauttah SS, International Board Member and Trustee, World Youth Alliance Africa

Dr. Manu Chandaria and Mrs. Aruna Chandaria, Chandaria Foundation

Dr. Vinicio Cerezo A., President of Guatemala (1986-1991), Founding Member, Fundación Esquipulas para la Integración Centroamericana

Hon. Bishop Manoel Ferreira, President, Int’l Convention of the Assemblies of God Ministry of Madureira

President Mwai Kibaki, President of the Republic of Kenya

Sir James Mancham, KBE

Dr. Osmar Lopes de Moraes, Attorney Parliamentary Chamber of Deputies of Brazil

Hon. Raila Odinga, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya

Hon. Lilian Sameniego, Leader of the Colorado Party, Paraguay

Dr. Robert and Donna Schuller

Tan Sri Datin Paduka Seri Hajah Zaleha Ismail, Chairman, Global Peace Festival Malaysia

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