International Day of Friendship
Build a bridge of Love and Peace with Conscience
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze
Zhang-men-ren of Tai Ji Men
Vice President of the Association of World Citizens,
NGO in Consultative Status with ECOSOC and Associated with the UN DPI
President of the Federation of World Peace and Love
July 30, 2025
Distinguished Guests, ladies and gentlemen, and friends from around the world — good day!
On this day in 2011, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed July 30th as the International Day of Friendship, with the hope of strengthening bonds between individuals and nations through cultural exchange. The aim is to build bridges of mutual understanding and inspire efforts toward global peace. Today, the world is facing unprecedented challenges: ongoing wars, frequent natural disasters, extreme climate events, food shortages and deepening social divisions have plunged humanity into a vortex of fear and mistrust. In such times, the power of international friendship and unity is needed more than ever.
A sustainable future cannot be built on division, confrontation, and hatred, but must be founded on understanding, mutual support, and respect. All people under heaven are brothers and sisters, and all living beings are part of a shared community of life. We are not alone in this world—we are interconnected, and together we share the responsibility for the fate of this planet.
Conscience, the beginning of friendship
When we act with conscience—thinking beyond personal interest, and from the perspective of all humanity—we begin to realize that love and peace are not far away. The solution lies within our hearts. Conscience is a universal language that transcends race, religion, and culture, allowing us to see that all global citizens are truly one family. Conscience is also a beacon of light in times of darkness. Friendships built on conscience lead us toward a path of understanding, collaboration, and shared prosperity.
Love, the soul of friendship
When we love ourselves and are also willing to love others—not only our own country, but other nations as well —friendship can rise above the divides of geography and ideology, forging the strongest bridge from heart to heart. Conflicts often stem from misunderstanding and prejudice, and the first step toward resolution is often as simple as a sincere greeting, a kind smile, a warm embrace, or an honest conversation.
Peace, the most beautiful fruit of friendship
True peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of inner harmony, tranquility, and compassion for others. When we choose respect, integrity, and understanding, we are planting the seeds of peace—not only for individuals or nations, but by beginning with self-reflection. This kind of peace is not upheld by force; it is sustained by the resonance of conscience. It does not rely on the exchange of interests, but flourishes through the alignment of hearts.
Dear friends, on this day filled with love and warmth, I invite everyone to listen sincerely to the voice of conscience, to embrace one another with love, and to let the hope of peace shine brightly on this turbulent planet. Let us begin with ourselves—replacing indifference with sincerity, competition with collaboration, and differences with empathy. In our families, our communities, and among nations, let us continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and goodwill, allowing the power of conscience to blossom in every corner of the world.
Conscience lights our path, love’s warmth heals our wounds, and the vision of peace draws us together. Guided by conscience, let us walk forward hand in hand, building bridges of friendship that lead us to a world of love and peace.
Thank you all!