The world is facing increasing tensions, with Asia at the forefront of growing anxieties regarding potential conflict. Nobel laureate Mohan Munasinghe from Sri Lanka has issued a stark warning about the heightened risk of nuclear war. He has urged Asian leaders to prioritize initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.
Munasinghe pointed to the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, as a positive symbol, highlighting the friendly discussions among leaders from India, China, and Russia. He believes these interactions offer a glimmer of hope for global peace.
Speaking at a peace initiative in Dubai, Munasinghe emphasized the leadership role now being played by the Global South, particularly Asia. The Global South, encompassing many developing and underdeveloped nations, primarily includes countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Sharing his perspective on the significance of the recent gathering, Munasinghe stated, “If one observed the SCO summit photos, they would notice the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This exemplifies the unity of Asia’s most influential nations.” He perceives this cooperation as an example of genuine global peace.
Munasinghe, recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007, has asserted that the world’s leaders must unify efforts towards peace. This year, he also served as the vice-chair of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Munasinghe, when reflecting on prior remarks about the possibility of nuclear conflict, noted, “The time has come for India, Sri Lanka, and all of Asia to exhibit a commitment to peace and stability, a path not previously demonstrated by major global powers, especially in the West. However, we shall set an example.” He underscores the critical necessity of averting a nuclear war, emphasizing that global peace hinges on collective action and cooperation. “The responsibility for securing global peace does not rest solely on the shoulders of governments or leaders, but also on the collective efforts of all. To safeguard our planet and ourselves, we must collaborate towards peace.”
Dr. Huzaifa Khorakiwala, representing the Wockhardt Foundation, launched the I Am Peacekeeper initiative in Dubai. This initiative seeks to bring together individuals and organizations dedicated to fostering dialogue and understanding for global harmony.