The UN DAY and the UN BALL this year was significant and memorable in view of the Nobel Peace Prize 2001awarded to the United Nations and its Secretary General Kofi Annan. It is also significant that the award has come in the aftermath of the tragic events of terrorism in the USA on 11.September. The repercussions of these events are still dominating the world in different ways.

The award of the Peace Prize seems to further highlight and amplify the need for a greater role and greater acceptance of the United Nations as an instrument for world peace. In his response to the horrific attacks in the United States on 11.September, Mr.Kofi Annan said " This was truly an attack on all humanity and all humanity has a stake in defeating the forces behind it. Indeed the most eloquent global answer so far to the attacks has been the commitment of states from every faith and region to act firmly against terrorism."

UNWA is proud of its link with the United Nations and rejoices in the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to this great organization and its dynamic Secretary General.

The UN DAY was observed in a befitting manner this year, with an Exhibition at the Sonargaon Hotel in which all the UN agencies in Bangladesh participated. The number of visitors was large with students from four schools. The success of the exhibition can best be judged from the comment of a teacher who accompanied the students: " This visit of one hour was equal to ten hours of class-room teaching". As part of the celebration, UNWA had organized a poster competition on the theme of the year : Volunteerism. We received a total of 70 entries from four schools. The winning posters were reprinted on the menu card at the UN Ball.

The UN Ball on 25.October was a smashing success. The 350 guests had a memorable evening of fun. A million thanks to all of you who worked so hard towards making it such a grand affair and in the process, making it a good fund-raiser for our welfare activities. Our thanks to the members of the Ball Committee, the Welfare Committee and all members who devoted their time and lent a helping hand. The management and staff of Sonargaon Hotel deserve special recognition for a job well done.

The November programme includes a portrayal of India by our Indian members, with the theme " Know More about India" Please get ready to watch an array of color and beautiful saris, get dressed up in a sari if you like or mendhi on your hands and of course, enjoy the a variety of Indian delicacies! You will get to know the style of saris worn in different States of India…..the "land of timeless tradition" and finally, do remember that your President is from India, so she and her Indian friends will welcome you with the traditional "namaste" and shower you with warm Indian hospitality.

Take Care and once again, WELL DONE