Mogadishu - United Nations staff members today gathered in Mogadishu to commemorate UN Day with a promise to continue their support for the people of Somalia in their quest for lasting peace and security.

The event was attended by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia, Michael Keating, and the Head of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), Hubert Price. The theme for this year’s celebration is potential in diversity.

Speaking at the event, SRSG Keating congratulated the staff for their hard work and urged them to continue upholding the organization’s values and ideals that are enshrined in the UN Charter.

“What we are trying to do in Somalia is to put these values in effect, in the way we work with the Somalis and help them build peace,” said SRSG Keating, who is also the Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).

He urged UN colleagues to work closely with the people of Somalia in developing their country, adding that the deaths of so many innocent civilians in the 14 October Mogadishu bombings should not be in vain.

United Nations Day is observed each year to mark the anniversary of the coming into force of the UN Charter in 1945, which culminated in the formation of the UN after the charter was formally ratified.

Assembled staff members observed a moment of silence in honour of the victims of the 14 October explosions, and Mr. Keating and Mr. Price expressed wishes for a full and speedy recovery by all Somalis who sustained injuries in the attacks.

“We send our deepest sympathies and condolences to all our Somali colleagues,” SRSG Keating stated, and he praised all UN staff who took part in the response to help the people of Somalia in one of their darkest hours. He also paid special recognition to the Somali national staff for their contribution to the UN in the country.

For his part, Mr. Price urged the staff to serve as good ambassadors of the organization and help to promote the core values of the organization.

“For some people, the face of the UN is the Secretary-General or the Security Council or something lofty. But for many people around the world, you and I are the face of the UN, and I hope that you make the most of that. Enjoy it and embrace it and be proud of this day,” stated the UNSOS Head.

In his message, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the world has the tools and wealth to overcome its many “grave challenges.”

“All we need is the will. The world’s problems transcend borders. We have to transcend our differences to transform our future,” said Mr. Guterres.