He came in a spotless white kurta, hobnobbed with guests and delivered an impressive speech. Dausa MP Sachin Pilot, one of India’s youngest Parliamentarians, was the star of the evening at the celebration of United Nation’s 59th birthday.
The United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945, when the charter was approved by China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States and by a majority of other signatories. This time, the day being a Sunday, the gala was held a day later. Explained Dr Maxine Olson, UN Resident Co-ordinator: “We wanted to celebrate on a day when people could come.” The do was held at the sprawling lawns of the UN’s Lodhi Road office.
“On a day, like this we pause and look back at the United Nations,” he added.
Pilot, who represented India at the recent Millennium Youth Conference in Japan, spoke of the need for team effort to implement the Millennium Goals of the UN.
“These are real issues of real people,” he said, referring to the eight Millennium goals. “As far as India is concerned, we need to hold hands and work together on issues that concern our lives,” he said. “There is a lot more to be done.”
In the corner of the lawn, were displays of laminated frames that captured the development initiatives of the UN that had made a difference in India. With more than 60 diplomats and dignitaries hobnobbing over wine and kebabs, the gathering looked more like a mini United Nations.