I move on to New Delhi with pleasant memories of Bangladesh and one of the factors that made it pleasant and memorable was my association with UNWA, which provided the opportunity to make so many friends from so many different nationalities. Please accept my sincere thanks for the trust you placed in me and for all your support in the discharge of my duties as President of UNWA for three terms!
I’d like to place on record my deep appreciation and thanks to the UNWA Board 2001 and the UN Ball Committee. This year teamwork and commitment is a true example of what UNWA is all about. Friends without ceremony or pretense we worked together for a common cause. Thank you for your loyal support, guidance and encouragement. As you move on keep the UNWA flag flying high and remember I am with you in spirit.
I leave Dhaka just before the two great festivals, which by a rare coincidence fall in the month of December this year. Whether we celebrate EID or CHRISTMAS, the message would be one of Peace, Joy, Understanding, Love and Fellowship. May these be yours this year and in the years to follow. The celebrations this year are perhaps dampened by the events of 11
th September and the subsequent responses and repercussions but it is important that we do not lose HOPE for world peace. As UNWA members, we should also draw inspiration from the fact that the United Nations and its Secretary General, Kofi Annan, jointly shared the Nobel Peace Prize 2001 this year. I have no doubt that the UN will increasingly shoulder a greater responsibility to bring peace to areas of conflict and let’s hope and pray it succeeds!Once again, goodbye dear friends and God be with you. I wish each of you and your dear ones, a very Happy EID and Happy CHRISTMAS!
Long Live UNWA.
I will miss all of you.
Patsy Lobo