19 December 2024, New York, USA – The grandeur of Carnegie Hall set the stage for around 2,000 attendees last December 17, for an inspiring evening dedicated to peace, sustainable development, and human dignity. The concert titled “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generation,” was held In Celebration of the Work of the 79th United Nations General Assembly and President H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang. Presented by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) New York Office (NYO) in collaboration with the International Academy for Arts and Cultural Studies, the event underscored the transformative power of culture and music in fostering global solidarity.
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This cherished annual tradition, supported by sponsoring Member States including Costa Rica, the Republic of El Salvador, the Republic of Singapore, the Principality of Monaco, the Sultanate of Oman, and the Portuguese Republic, welcomed distinguished guests from the international community. Among them were H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and H.E. Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the UN Sustainable Development Group. Both dignitaries delivered stirring opening remarks, setting a tone of hope and determination for the evening.
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Mr. Marco Suazo, Head of the UNITAR New York Office, aptly encapsulated the essence of the occasion, stating, "This annual concert is a cherished tradition for the UN family, bringing us together in the spirit of unity, cultural appreciation, and collective hope." His words resonated with the diverse performances that followed, featuring the Boston String Academy, Columbia University - TC Choir, Tsinghua University Oriental Folk Music Ensemble, and World of Chibuzo. Each group brought their unique artistic flair, weaving together a rich tapestry of cultural expressions.
This year’s concert held special significance as it provided an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by the global community while highlighting the resilience and solidarity that unite us. As the melodies filled the iconic venue, the audience was reminded of the power of art to transcend boundaries, offering solace and inspiration in times of uncertainty.
The evening concluded not only as a tribute to the achievements of the 79th General Assembly but also as a reaffirmation of the shared commitment to leave no one behind. In celebrating unity and collaboration, the concert served as a poignant reminder of the strength inherent in collective action for a more peaceful and sustainable future.
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