Christchurch mayor appeals for peace amid ongoing global conflicts
The Mayor of Christchurch, Phil Mauger, has penned a letter to the Mayor of Hiroshima, Kazumi Matsui, on the occasion of the 105th anniversary of the end of World War I.
In the correspondence dated November 11, 2023, Mayor Mauger reflected on the solemn history of the day, acknowledging that the hope for it to be the 'War to End All Wars' remains unfulfilled.
He highlighted ongoing global conflicts, particularly noting the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East between Israel and Hamas.
Emphasising the importance of international laws like the Geneva Convention, Mauger called for adherence to the principles of state defence without the massacre of innocents or taking of hostages.
He outlined the goals of the Mayors for Peace network, which strives to address pressing issues such as starvation, poverty, refugee plights, human rights abuses, and environmental degradation.
In light of the recent clashes between Israel and Hamas, the Mayor of Christchurch advocated for the support of Mayors for Peace in calling for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the establishment of safe areas for civilians in the Gaza strip.
The letter concluded with a message that enduring peace cannot be secured by war but through mutual understanding, recognition, and respect.
Mayor Mauger urged a collective commitment to peace and unity in resolving conflicts, encapsulating the spirit of cooperation and global unity in the quest for a peaceful resolution to violence.
