[HWPL]

[HWPL] Parliament of Madagascar Awards Appreciation Plaque to Chairman Man-hee Lee, "The Father of Peace”

The plaque of APPRECIATION delivered to Chairman Lee by Jean Max Rakotomamonjy, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar. The appreciation plaque reads, “I hereby express my heartfelt gratitude to you, Chairman Lee, who has worked to achieve world peace with dedication and sacrifice as the father of peace.”

The National Assembly of Madagascar, home to the world's fourth largest island and a democratic republic and former socialist republic, has shown great enthusiasm for the peace movement led by Chairman Man-hee Lee of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). A Madagascan politician, who had attended the September 18 WARP Summit hosted by HWPL in Korea in 2014, was particularly impressed by the way the global village was being united for peace.

President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy was so moved by Chairman Lee's peace movement that he delivered Chairman Lee a plaque of appreciation at the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 18, 2017, at InterContinental Seoul Parnas.

President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy delivers a plaque of appreciation to Chairman Man-hee Lee, in honor of his peace efforts, at the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit held at InterContinental Seoul Parnas on September 18, 2017.

Through this plaque of appreciation, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy expressed his gratitude to Chairman Lee for his commitment to peace and the invitation to the WARP Summit for participation in the work of peace. He presented a plaque of appreciation and expressed his desire to cooperate in this work of peace. The plaque of appreciation stated, “I hereby express my heartfelt gratitude to you, Chairman Lee, who has worked to achieve world peace with dedication and sacrifice as the father of peace.”

At the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy remarked on his experience attending the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in the previous year. He said, “As seen on the screen at the stadium, I was able to confirm that the peace movement became more widespread by seeing people from all over the world attending this event together.”

President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy holds a world balloon during the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 18, 2017

Following his attendance at the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in 2016, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy began to give close attention to HWPL's peace activities. He was particularly impressed by the voluntary peace activities of the members of International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), an affiliate group of HWPL, and thereafter participated in various HWPL events. He expressed his active support by writing and delivering a personal letter of support for the "Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW, 10 Articles 38 Clauses).” In December 2016, the same year, during a meeting at the National Assembly of Madagascar, HWPL was introduced and the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) was proclaimed.

After that, he attended the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in 2017, where he delivered a plaque of appreciation. He then attended high-level meetings, including the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), which is the legislative body of 55 African countries, during HWPL's 29th Peace Tour in South Africa in August 2018. He was instrumental in securing the support of the chairman of the PAP with a signed MOU made between HWPL and PAP.

The 'Daedong Festival' is in action during the evening ceremony of the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in Hwaseong Stadium, Gyeonggi province, on September 18, 2017

HWPL's 'DPCW 10 Articles, 38 Clauses’ Performance moves the hearts of guests towards peace at the 2nd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 18, 2016

Since then, the friendship between Madagascar and Korea has progressed one step further. In December 2018, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar Jean Max Rakotomamonjy met with the Korean Ambassador to Madagascar Im Sang-woo, and proposed the establishment of the Korea-Madagascar Parliamentary Friendship Association. Ambassador Im welcomed this, and replied that a Parliamentary Friendship group would play a leading role in establishing exchanges with parliamentarians from the Parliament of Madagascar to promote various Korea-focused future projects.

This alliance seems to have fuelled the creation of a 'Korean Wave' in Madagascar.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] Appreciation Plaque from the Ministry of Justice of Lebanon, in support of HWPL's ''DPCW 10 Articles, 38 Clauses”

On September 18th 2015, the then Minister of Justice of Lebanon Ashraf Rifi, who was visiting Korea to attend the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, presented an appreciation plaque on behalf of the Ministry of Justice of Lebanon to Chairman Man-hee Lee

On September 18, 2017, Lebanon's Deputy Minister of Justice Meisam Nuairi presented a plaque of appreciation, on behalf of the Lebanese Ministry of Justice, to Chairman Man-hee Lee. The Ministry of Justice of Lebanon expressed respect and appreciation for Chairman Lee's peace activities through this plaque of appreciation (left). A commemorative medal, picture frame containing carvings of the history of Lebanon, and an appreciation plaque were delivered by Deputy Minister Nuairi.

The Ministry of Justice of Lebanon is one of several national institutions that supports and participates in the world peace movement of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). In particular, it has expressed its support for the imminent enactment of the ‘Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW 10 Articles, 38 Clauses)’, proclaimed by the HWPL International Law Peace Committee, and presented an appreciation plaque to HWPL Chairman Man-Hee Lee.

On September 18, 2015, the then Minister of Justice of Lebanon Ashraf Rifi, who visited Korea to attend the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, delivered a plaque of appreciation engraved with the national flag of the Republic of Korea, the country of origin of Chairman Lee, together with the emblem of the Ministry of Justice of Lebanon and the flag of Lebanon.

During a congratulatory speech at the ceremony, the then Justice Minister Ashraf Rifi said strongly, “World peace is no longer a dream, but a goal. Each politician should participate in the enactment of international law for the cessation of war and world peace.” These remarks accurately encapsulate HWPL's movement for peace.

Former Minister of Justice of Lebanon Ashraf Rifi delivers a congratulatory speech at the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 18, 2015, where he appeals for support of the enactment of HWPL's global peace law

HWPL conceived and promulgated the 10 articles and 38 clauses of the DPCW, which is a bill that fundamentally eradicates the root causes of war, thereby bringing all wars in the global village to an end. The DPCW has been garnering support from the former and current presidents and politicians of each country. Women of HWPL's partner group, International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), and the youth of HWPL's affiliate group, International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), have been urging political, economic, and social leaders of every country for their support, and the media within each country has reported accordingly. Furthermore, HWPL has been making appeals to faith leaders for the end of religiously-motivated conflicts through the establishment of the World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Office, where comparative discussions of scriptures take place for religious unity.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Justice of Lebanon expressed its active support for HWPL's activities. Alice Shabtini, the then Minister of Displaced Persons of Lebanon, also attended the proclamation of the Declaration of Peace and the Cessation of War (DPCW 10 articles, 38 clauses) on March 14, 2016, where she expressed her support for HWPL's activities through a congratulatory speech.

Former Minister Shabtini said, “Since peace is the responsibility of the international community, the role of women is just as important as men, especially considering the pioneering role of women in the family, society and the country”. She exclaimed, “Peace forever! Let's make a peaceful world."

The then Minister of Displaced Persons of Lebanon Alice Shabtini delivers congratulatory remarks at the proclamation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW 10 articles, 38 clauses) on March 14, 2016

The following year, on September 18, 2017, Deputy Minister of Justice of Lebanon Meissam Nuairi, attended the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in Korea. Deputy Minister Nuairi once again visited Korea with another appreciation plaque for HWPL, produced by the Ministry of Justice of Lebanon, along with commemorative medals and gifts. He delivered the appreciation plaque, on which were engraved the words 'a token of cooperation between the Ministry of Justice of Lebanon and HWPL’, to Chairman Lee following the WARP Summit. Soon after, in December of that year, Deputy Minister Nuairi delivered a letter of support to HWPL. In addition, Deputy Minister Nuairi opened discussion on the introduction of a peace education program at the Lebanon Justice and Training Institute.

The Ministry of Justice is not the only group in Lebanon that is involved in HWPL's peace movement. On September 18, 2014, His Eminence Sayyed Ali El-Amine, a Lebanese Muslim religious authority, attended the WARP Summit and participated in the signing ceremony at the 2014 World Alliance of Religions' Peace (WARP) Summit. 

HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee (right) delivered a commemorative speech at the 1st Annual Commemoration of the September 18th World Alliance of Religions' Peace Summit at the World Peace Gate in Olympic Park, Seoul in 2015.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] ‘Scars of the 26-Year Civil War’: Ministry of Justice of Sri Lanka Awards Appreciation Plaque to HWPL

On September 18, 2017, former Chief Justice of Sri Lanka Priyasad Dep, who attended the 3rd annual commemoration of the WARP Summit, delivered an appreciation plaque produced by The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka to Chairman Lee

Sri Lanka experienced a 26-year civil war. Former Chief Justice of Sri Lanka Priyasad Dep, who spent his career as a judge in his home country Sri Lanka, which bears the scars of war, was surprised to discover that a law was being enacted to address the cause of war and conflict at its roots.

The bill is the 10 articles and 38 clauses of the ‘Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW)', drafted and promulgated by the International Law Peace Committee of HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light). Former Chief Justice Priyasad Dep attended the proclamation ceremony, learned about the bill, and became a member of the HWPL Advisory Board.

The following year, on September 18, 2017, former Chief Justice Priyasad Dep attended the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit held in Seoul, Korea, where he witnessed the global village becoming one through peace. He delivered an appreciation plaque to Man-hee Lee, Chairman of HWPL, expressing his gratitude for such a peace achievement.

The appreciation plaque was issued by the Ministry of Justice of Sri Lanka, and serves to express recognition of HWPL Chairman Lee's efforts in enacting an international peace law, and a token of thanks for the world peace movement in light of the invitation to the WARP Summit.

Former Chief Justice of Sri Lanka Priyasad Dep (left), visits Korea to attend the 3rd annual commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 18th 2017

Former Chief Justice Priyasad Dep served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka from 2017 to 2018. The Supreme Court has a total of 17 judges, which includes the Chief Justice. It is the highest court in Sri Lanka and has the power to exercise its powers in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. It has ultimate appellate jurisdiction in constitutional matters and takes precedence over all lower courts.

The proclamation ceremony of the DPCW, held on March 14, 2016, was attended by former Chief Justice Priyasad Dep and numerous government officials from Sri Lanka, including the former Minister of Justice Wijeyadasa Rajapakse, and a number of Sri Lankan refugees. Former Justice Minister Rajapakse, who was a Minister of Buddha Sasana and later became Minister of Education, delivered a congratulatory message at the ceremony.

In particular, former Justice Minister Rajapakse expressed his deep appreciation for Chairman Lee's peace movement. He said, "I was very happy to know Chairman Lee, who is working on a global level to achieve peace in this tragic world. I was surprised by his representative's idea of   making an international treaty that would end or abolish all future wars."

In addition, “I was very happy to know that 10 articles and 38 clauses of the DPCW was completed under the guidance of President Lee.” He added, “I want to celebrate this historic moment. As a peace lover, I fully support this worthy and great peace movement that will bring peace to the whole world.”

On March 14, 2016, HWPL International Law Peace Committee proclaims the 10 articles and 38 clauses of the ‘Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War' (DPCW) and Chairman Man-hee Lee delivers a commemorative speech

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] 'Letter of Support for the Peaceful Reunification of the Korean Peninsula' from 60 leaders of Eastern Europe

Parts of a letter in support of the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula, sent to HWPL, by former presidents and heads of state of Eastern Europe in May 2018

In May 2018, with a heightened sense of peace on the Korean Peninsular in view of the April 2018 inter-Korean summit on the 27th, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man-hee Lee) embarked on its 27th peace tour of five countries in Europe.

61 leaders and influential figures, including former presidents and prime ministers, who believe that peace on the Korean Peninsular can serve as a shortcut to world peace, wrote a letter in support of the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsular and delivered it to HWPL. These letters embody a desire for free movement and unification between the two Koreas, and their intention to participate in HWPL's peace activities.

A commemorative photo of participants, including former political leaders of Eastern European countries, taken following a high-level meeting in support of the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsular in Romania on May 19, 2018

These noteworthy letters were delivered following a high-level meeting, attended by the former political leaders of Eastern European countries, that was held in support of the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsular on May 19th 2018. This meeting was held in collaboration with HWPL and the Institute for Advanced Studies in Levant Culture and Civilization (ISACCL, Chairman Emil Constantinescu). At this meeting, the former President of Romania Emil Constantinescu wrote and delivered a 'letter of support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula' to Chairman Lee.

Within the letter, former President Emil Constantinescu wrote, "I support the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula," and added, "I commend the two leaders for their determination in bringing the (April 2018 inter-Korean) summit to an end, laying the foundation for the cessation of war and achievement of peace on the Korean Peninsula."

He continued, “The sight of the leaders of the two countries holding hands and freely traveling across the demarcation line that separates the two countries moved the world.” ''In order to achieve this, the guns that are aimed at the chest of the people must be taken away, and the people of the South and the North must come and go freely.”

In addition, he said, “HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee, as a veteran of the Korean War, has travelled the world 26 times and strives to achieve peace more than anyone else.” He said, ''his peace activities have given everyone hope that 'peace can be achieved'".

Former President Emil Constantinescu also said, "As a person who participates in and supports HWPL's peace activities to realize world peace, I believe that HWPL's peace activities are having a positive impact, directly or indirectly." He continued, "I look forward to the day when a new era of national reconciliation and peace and prosperity will bear fruit as a result of reunification of the Korean Peninsula, and it becomes a peaceful nation for the world."

Lastly, the former President said, "I hope that Chairman Lee's efforts for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula will yield successful results and become a model for world peace."

A photo of a piece of a performance puzzle that conveys the wish for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula, taken during a high-level meeting on May 19, 2018

The 3rd President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko expressed his sincere support for the reunification of the Korean Peninsula in the letter, and the 4th President of Albania Rexhep Meidani wrote that it was a "successful meeting and a very special exchange."

The 13th President of Bosnia and Herzegovina Haris Silajdžić, said, "I hope that HWPL's efforts for peace will be successful and set an example for the world.'' He expressed his gratitude in the letter, writing, "I thank Chairman Man-hee Lee for his peace efforts." Former East German Prime Minister Lothar de Maizière wrote, "Chairman Lee's peace activities have given everyone hope that 'peace can be achieved'”. Former East German head of government Hans Modrow said, “I hope that the new era will bear fruit as a result of the reunification of the Korean Peninsula.”

In addition to these letters of support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula, participants in the event included the former Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Belarus Stanislav Shushkevich; President of the Baltic-Black Sea Forum Gennady Bourbulis; German politician of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) Martin Rabanus; former Minister of Trade and Tourism of the East German government Sybille Reider; Mayor of Targu Mures of Romania Dorin Florea; co-chairman of the German left-wing party 'Die Linke' of the German state of Hesse Ulrich Wilken; German lawyer Wolf Rider; Professor of International Law at the University of Cologne Stefan Hoff; Judge at the Constitutional Court of Romania Petre Lăzăroiu; Vice-President of Mayors for Peace (Norway) Thore Vestby; and German civil rights activist and author Friedrich Schorlemmer.

The letter-giving ceremony in support of the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsular was held not only in Romania, but in cities throughout HWPL's European tour. Prior to visiting Romania, at a high-level meeting with HWPL held in Oslo, Norway on the 16th of the same month, the former Prime Minister of Norway Kjell Magne Bondevik (70) said that he would offer his support and participation until North and South Korea sign a peace agreement and achieve unification.

On May 12, at the Pan-European Peace Forum held by HWPL in Frankfurt, Germany, the former local Councillor of the city of Frankfurt Manfred Florian Welker delivered a 'Letter of Support for the Peaceful Reunification of the Korean Peninsula' to Chairman Lee.

In the letter, the former Councillor made reference to the situation on the Korean Peninsula, “Above all, given the current situation, it is not an exaggeration to say that the Korean Peninsula is in one of the most dangerous situations in the world. It is leading people to a life of fear.”

Mr. Welker, referring to HWPL's DPCW, said that "(DPCW) will be sufficient to solve these problems." He also wrote in the letter, “I strongly support the peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula because it acknowledges the absurdity of the existence of a country that remains divided as a result of outdated events that occurred during the Cold War of the 1960s.”

At a Peace Forum held in Germany and Ukraine, government officials, civil society and youth and others recalled their own experiences of war and division, and wrote the 'Letter of Support for the Peaceful Reunification of the Korean Peninsula' to HWPL. Letters were delivered to HWPL's visiting peace delegation, who were touring Europe.

A commemorative photo is taken of Shincheonji Chairman Man-hee Lee in front of the 'Declaration of Unification of Korea' monument

The spiritual leadership of Chairman Man-hee Lee is central to HWPL's peace movement for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. Chairman Lee's will for peaceful reunification is fully contained within the 'Declaration of Unification of Korea', which was proclaimed at an event commemorating the 65th anniversary of Korean Independence in 2010. Chairman Lee, who read the proclamation before 33 national representatives, urged the leaders of North and South Korea to unify as soon as possible through dialogue, emphasizing the fact that this is the will of the people, and demanding that they achieve “unification.”

At the same time, Chairman Lee demanded free movement between the two Koreas and the guarantee of freedom of religion. He predicted that through this, peaceful reunification of the North and the South could be achieved, and that religious unification and world peace could be achieved.

Chairman Lee, a veteran of the Korean War, said, “True liberation is achieved only when the two Koreas are united.''

In line with the wishes of veterans and divided families who attended the 60th anniversary of the Korean War, the declaration was carved into the monument in the shape of the Korean peninsular and is exhibited at The Peace Institute in Gapyeong.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] Medal to commemorate the '25th Anniversary of the Fall of Communism' in Eastern Europe and Romania

A commemorative medal, bestowed on presidents and prime ministers who have contributed to the democratization of Eastern Europe, was awarded to Chairman Lee by former President of Romania Emil Constantinescu during a pre-event dinner for the '25th Anniversary of the Fall of Communism' on November 19, 2014

A meeting of influential people can make history. Such was the case between Man-hee Lee, Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and Emil Constantinescu, the 3rd President of Romania. This meeting, attended by the heads of Eastern European countries, secured consensus for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula and the enactment of an international law for the cessation of war and peace. Former President Emil Constantinescu awarded Chairman Lee a commemorative medal, which is only granted to presidents and prime ministers who have contributed to the democratization of Eastern Europe.

On November 19, 2014, a pre-event dinner to an international conference, held the next day, was attended by prominent figures from political, economic, cultural and legal circles in Europe to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the fall of communism in Eastern Europe.

The heads of Eastern European nations and Chairman Man-hee Lee (front row, far right), who was invited as a special guest, in attendance at an international conference on the '25th Anniversary of the Fall of Communism' held at the Senate Hall of the Palace of Parliament in Romania on November 20, 2014

Key figures included former President of Romania Emil Constantinescu, 4th President of Albania Rexhep Meidani, 2nd President of Poland Lech Wałęsa, 3rd President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko, 2nd President of Moldova Petru Lucinschi, former Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Belarus Stanislav Shushkevich, former Prime Minister of Romania Calin Popescu-Tariceanu, President of the Marmara Group Foundation Akkan Suver, former Ambassador of Ireland to Romania Gerard Corr, former President of the 36th session of UNESCO General Conference Katalin Bogyay, former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Turkey Hikmet Çetin, Honorary President of the World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS) Ivo Šlaus, and more.

Former President Emil Constantinescu held an awards-giving ceremony, saying, "I would like to take this opportunity and, in commemoration of the Romanian Revolution, bestow a medal to the presidents of each country who have stood for democratization in their country." After conferring all the medals on the recipients, former President Emil Constantinescu introduced Chairman Lee and presented him with a special award that is only granted to presidents and prime ministers who have contributed to the democratization of Eastern Europe. It is no small feat for Mr. Lee, the chairman of a civil organization, to receive this commemorative medal, and is indicative of the level of support that Chairman Lee garnered for the peace movement.

This was immediately demonstrated at the event held the next day. Chairman Lee was invited to the celebrations of the '25th Anniversary of the Fall of Communism' in Romania and the inauguration of the newly elected president of Romania. Chairman Lee met with 25 former presidents of Central and Eastern European nations, religious leaders from 7 countries and Supreme Court justices, where they engaged in fruitful discussion about “cessation of war, world peace.”

Chairman Lee was invited as a special guest to a meeting attended by heads of Eastern European countries.

Key figures at the meeting included the 2nd President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Wałęsa, 2nd President of Bulgaria Petar Stojanov, 2nd President and 34th Prime Minister of Albania Sali Berisha, 4th President of Albania Rexhep Meidan, 2nd President of Slovakia Rudolf Schuster, 3rd President of Serbia Boris Tadić, 3rd President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko, 7th President of Latvia Valdis Zatlers, former Chairman of the Supreme Council of Lithuania Vytautas Landsbergis, and the then Prime Minister of Romania Victor Ponta.

At an afternoon meeting held later that day, as former President Emil Constantinescu was introducing Chairman Lee, he recounted what he had witnessed at the WARP Summit in Korea, saying, "The World Peace Summit hosted by Chairman Man-Hee Lee was beyond imagination.''

Chairman Lee delivered a presentation on the theme of “the necessity of a peaceful policy for the unification of the Korean Peninsula.” Following the presentation, former President Emil Constantinescu asked those in attendance in favour of Chairman Lee's cause to raise their hands. Every single participant did so. 25 former presidents and heads of state were instantly appointed as HWPL's Peace Advisory Council members. Leaders, who had led the transition of the political landscape in Eastern Europe from communism to democracy, joined in an instant. They all agreed to enact an international law that “strives for the enactment of an international law for the cessation of wars across the entire world”, and to join in Chairman Lee’s belief that “religions at the center of conflicts must unite.”

Moreover, the ICD (Institute for Cultural Diplomacy) promised to act as an advisor to HWPL, and Eastern European religious leaders decided to establish a ‘WARP Summit Office’ for religious unity.

Chairman Lee and former President Emil Constantinescu meet for the first time at the National Liberal Party office in Bucharest, Romania on October 15th 2013. The former president gifts Chairman Lee with his book 

In an interview after the event, former President Emil Constantinescu said, “After hearing Chairman Lee’s speech, many people showed interest in the Korean Peninsular issue. We also wish for peace on the Korean Peninsular, in Europe and all over the world.”

Chairman Lee and former President Emil Constantinescu met for the first time on October 15th 2013, during HWPL's 6th Peace Tour.  At that time, Chairman Lee first met and conversed with the former (2nd and 4th) President of Romania Ion Iliescu, and then with the Romanian Minister responsible for Youth and Sport and the President's Advisory Committee. Chairman Lee met and engaged in dialogue with former President Emil Constantinescu thereafter.

The meeting between former President Emil Constantinescu and Chairman Lee became the starting point of a peace movement that they would pursue together. In an interview on that day, the former President concurred with Chairman Lee's expression, 'cessation of war, world peace,' and he became a member of the HWPL Peace Advisory Council, promising his active cooperation, which he gradually put into practice step by step. The former President continued to collaborate with HWPL and was convinced that ‘realizing peace’ could be achieved after he attended the WARP Summit in Korea from September 17-19, 2014 of the following year. After that, he attended two more international conferences and witnessed the realization of peace with his own eyes. The former President was moved by Chairman Lee's ability to practically carry out his peace tour without rest, and the peace tour gained further momentum with the cooperation of the former President, who was instrumental in ensuring Chairman Lee's 27th and 31st peace tours went smoothly.

In particular, during the 27th peace tour in 2018, a high-level meeting was held between the heads of Eastern Europe to fulfill the promise they had made four years earlier for “support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula.” The former presidents wrote a letter of support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula, which they delivered to Chairman Lee.

During the 31st peace tour, the former President helped organize peace conferences with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania, The Institute for Advanced Studies in Levant Cultural and Civilization (ISACCL - Institutul de Studii Avansate pentru Civilizația Levantului), the Centre for Baltic-Black Sea Studies (Center for BBS) and the University of Bucharest.

The '25th Anniversary of the Fall of Communism' in Eastern Europe was held at the Palace of the Parliament in Romania on November 20th 2014

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] American Society of Yemen awards HWPL with ‘Certificate of Thanks and Gratitude’

An appreciation plaque awarded to HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee by the American Society of Yemen, in recognition of his contribution to peace

People in countries where conflict persists are bound to yearn for peace. One country, that has endured a civil war lasting over seven years since late 2014, is Yemen. Yemenis, who have experienced the horrors of war, can only sympathize with the peace movement of Chairman Man-Hee Lee of HWPL.

On May 6th, 2017, during HWPL's 25th Peace Tour, at the Religious Leaders' Conference 'Peace be with you - Becoming one through diversity' held at Hotel Pennsylvania in New York, USA, American Society of Yemen  presented Chairman Lee with a 'Certificate of Thanks and Gratitude' for his contribution to peace.

Fateh Nagi Alayah, President of American Society of Yemen; Nabil Ahmad Aljomai, Vice President of American Society of Yemen; and Eric Adams, the then 18th Borough President of Brooklyn (and current Mayor of New York City), all participated in the giving of the 'Certificate of Thanks and Gratitude' to Chairman Lee for his outstanding contribution in bringing peace to humanity.

Nabil A. Aljomai, Vice President of American Society of Yemen (right) presents an appreciation plaque to Chairman Lee for his contribution to peace at a meeting of religious leaders held at Hotel Pennsylvania in New York, USA, on May 6th, 2017, during HWPL's 25th Peace Tour

The appreciation plaque reads, “The President of the American Society of Yemen expresses deep gratitude to Chairman Man-Hee Lee for his outstanding contribution to peace for humanity through Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). May God bless you.”

Religious people, NGOs, university students, and peace activists who attended the meeting congratulated Chairman Lee on his award. Together with HWPL, they affirmed their vision for world peace and promised to participate in its realization.

American Society of Yemen was founded in 1892. As an association of Yemenis living in New York, USA, it is an organization that not only serves the needs of Yemenis living in New York, but also engages in social, cultural, and political activities for safety and peace in their country. The Society has hosted or participated in events for freedom, equality and peace, such as the anti-bombing rally by the US in Yemen, the anti-discrimination rally by the US in the Middle East, fundraising for relief aid, and the numerous Yemeni American Day Parade.

The relationship between the Society and HWPL began in 2014. After the founding of HWPL on May 25th, 2013, in the spring of 2014 the following year, HWPL New York attended various meetings at the United Nations, engaging in peace discussions with various people. In the process, HWPL New York met Rashad Alkhader, a lawyer of Yemeni heritage. Through Mr. Alkhader, various correspondence was made with the Society, which led to various events and meetings.

On September 1st, 2014, when Chairman Man-hee Lee visited New York on his 14th peace tour, a luncheon was held at a restaurant in Bryant Park in Manhattan. Sadik Kaid, Manager at the Yemeni American Association, said, "I think Chairman Man-hee Lee's peace movement is essential to the problems facing the Middle East where I live." Yashin Alibadi, a Cleric of Greenpoint Islamic Center, who attended the event, also expressed his excitement for the World Peace Summit to be held in that same month, saying, “I believe that the World Peace Summit will be an epochal event for people all over the world to come together to achieve peace.”

Chairman Man-hee Lee (center, yellow tie) holds hands with religious dignitaries during the 'Peace be with you - Becoming One through Diversity' conference at Hotel Pennsylvania in New York, USA, on May 6th, 2017

All six people who attended the luncheon signed the HWPL peace agreement.

Chairman Man-hee Lee said, “The majority of conflicts and wars in the world are caused by religion. Religion should be the light of the world that guides. Religion cannot be considered as such if it causes conflict. If corrupt religions submit to true religion, welcome its true Creator and become One, there will be no conflict.”

Officials of the Society attended the World Peace Summit in Seoul, South Korea that month, and human rights activists from Yemen who attended delivered a message about peace.

Tawakoll Karman, women's rights activist and youngest recipient in that field of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011, delivered the keynote speech of the main event, saying, “The root of conflict and war do not necessarily stem from religion itself, but from the extremists and misinterpretations of one’s own religion. I think it belongs to the religious leaders.” “If we truly love peace, just as Chairman Lee has mentioned, we must all have the same faith. We all believe in the same God.”

She also said, "This is the first time in my life I have seen such an immense conference." She continued, “I sincerely relate to Chairman Man-hee Lee’s statement that there is one religion. Because we believe in one God, we must spread the spirit of love, peace and tolerance.”

Since the WARP Summit, the Society has steadily participated in various events, such as HWPL's WARP Office meetings for the unity of religions, and has also expressed its active support for HWPL, which is working for much-needed peace in Yemen, a country tainted by civil war.

On July 23rd 2017, HWPL held a “Piece of PEACE” event at the Basement Cultural Foundation building in Sanaa, the capital of Yemen. It was recognized as a particularly meaningful event within the region, as it was held in a climate of severe poverty due to the ongoing conflict, and the deaths of thousands of people from cholera.

The event was hosted by the Yemeni non-governmental organization Basement Cultural Foundation, and was organized by HWPL to inform 25 members of the Foundation about the 'Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (10 Articles, 38 Clauses)' through picture drawings. In particular, among the specific provisions of the DPCW, the participants identified provisions applicable to Yemen and discussed ways to apply them.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] ‘Peace Recognition Award’ delivered to HWPL by municipality of Santa Tecla in El Salvador

On November 10th 2015, Mayor Roberto José d'Aubuisson Munguía of Santa Tecla, El Salvador, delivered a peace recognition award to Chairman Lee

The relationship between Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and El Salvador is deep-rooted. HWPL visited the Central American republic El Salvador, classified as the most dangerous country in the world, during their 7th peace tour in 2013. From then on, reciprocal activity would evolve, and in 2015, a Peace Monument was constructed and unveiled in a park in the city center of Santa Tecla, El Salvador. HWPL collaborated with the municipal council and carried out a vigorous peace movement, and in recognition of Chairman Man-hee Lee's efforts, was given a peace recognition award.

Mayor Roberto José d'Aubuisson Munguía of Santa Tecla presents Chairman Lee with a ‘Peace Recognition Award', following the 'Unveiling Ceremony of the Peace Monument of the WARP Summit', on November 10th 2015

The efforts for peace bore fruit during HWPL's 21st Peace Tour in El Salvador (November 9-10th 2015). During this second visit to the country in two years, Chairman Lee was invited to a peace event hosted by the government of El Salvador.

On day one on the 9th, Chairman Lee first visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador where he had a meeting with the then Foreign Minister Hugo Martínez. Martínez, who had heard of the construction and unveiling of the Peace Monument, said, "I would like to express my gratitude for the construction of the Peace Monument in Santa Tecla."

On that day, Chairman Lee attended the WARP (World Alliance of Religions' Peace) office meeting, where he was interviewed by the local media, and then dined with locals at a restaurant in Santa Tecla. In attendance were Mayor Roberto José d'Aubuisson Munguía of Santa Tecla, his wife Jackeline d'Aubuisson, and Councillor Jaime Roberto Zablah-Siri.

Chairman Lee greets Foreign Minister Hugo Martínez of El Salvador on November 9th 2015

Chairman Man-hee Lee said, “God is love, life, and peace.'' In addition, Chairman Lee emphasized the necessity for peace education, saying, “We need peace education. I think that, more than school rules, all children should grow up with ‘peace education’ in their textbooks so they can acquire an understanding of peace.” Mayor d'Aubuisson responded, “His message is powerful. You cannot have such conviction unless it comes from the heart.” Regarding peace education, he affirmed Chairman Lee's message, saying, “the peace education that the Chairman spoke of is absolutely necessary in order for our descendants to grow up upright and healthy.”

Councillor Zablah-Siri, who attended the event, said, “I have watched all the videos you sent me (containing HWPL’s peace activities), and I’ve re-watched them several times over. I realize that this genuine peace movement started with one person. We will support and help you, so please trust us.”

The following day, on the 10th, the unveiling ceremony of the Peace Monument was held at El Cafetalón, a park in Santa Tecla that had been constructed as a large-scale peace park for children. In addition, in commemoration of the proclamation of the 'Declaration of World Peace' and the founding of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) on May 25th 2013, September 18th was designated ‘HWPL Day’ as an annual commemoration.

The Peace Monument of the WARP Summit consists of the four flags of El Salvador, South Korea, Santa Tecla, and HWPL, with the logos of Santa Tecla and HWPL engraved on the monument to symbolize the establishment of peace in Santa Tecla through an alliance with HWPL and between the two countries.

Chairman Man-Hee Lee delivers a greeting during the 'Unveiling Ceremony of the Peace Monument of the WARP Summit' at El Cafetalón, a park in Santa Tecla, El Salvador, on November 10th 2015

Mayor d'Aubuisson said, “I can feel true peace in this park, which has become the starting point of the spring of peace. This is the day we are moving towards peace.” He also said, “With this declaration, we are proud that we have become the first city of peace in El Salvador to be named'', and, ''Let's not just cry for peace with words, but put it into practice."

After the unveiling of the Peace Monument, about 1,000 people from Santa Tecla participated in a Peace Walk. Then, at Santa Tecla City Hall, leaders from the fields of religion, politics, and academia in El Salvador were invited to a banquet.

Mayor d'Aubuisson expressed his sincere gratitude to HWPL at a dinner that day, signed the ‘World Peace Agreement’ proposed by HWPL and presented the Peace Recognition Award to Chairman Man-hee Lee. In addition, he promised to cooperate in the activities of the WARP (World Alliance of Religions' Peace) Office, a movement for world peace promoted by HWPL, and the enactment of international legislation to end all wars.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] ‘Letter of support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula’ from a German politician in Frankfurt

A ‘Letter of support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula’ was delivered by Manfred Florian Welker, the former local councillor of the city of Frankfurt, to Chairman Man-hee Lee

In 2018, a climate of peace was created through three inter-Korean summits that took place within the Korean Peninsula. The first inter-Korean summit, held on April 27th, turned the eyes of the world towards the Korean Peninsula. Chairman Lee always prayed for peace in the Korean Peninsula. On May 12th, the following month, a special letter was delivered to Man-hee Lee, Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), who was in Frankfurt, Germany during his 27th peace tour.

At the 'Pan-European Peace Forum for the Peaceful Unification of the Korean Peninsula and Action Plan through DPCW', held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in Frankfurt, the then Councillor Manfred Florian Welker (Frankfurt Regional Advisory Council) sent a letter of support (Letter of Support for Peaceful Unification of the Korean Peninsula) to Chairman Lee.

Former City Councillor Manfred Florian Welker delivers a letter of support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula to Chairman Lee at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany, on May 12th 2018

In this letter, former councillor Welker said, "I sincerely thank all of you for your work for world peace and the end of war."

He emphasized, “With the firm conviction that world peace can be achieved in this era if everyone becomes a messenger of peace, I am firmly following the exemplary goal of HWPL, a legally binding instrument in the form of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).”

Regarding the numerous conflicts occurring within the current international community, he said, "The many tragic wars and conflicts in today's society that require urgent and humanitarian solutions are causing the deaths of many innocent people. The causes of these conflicts are deeply rooted. Humanity is hesitant to seek peaceful agreements to prevent these problems, as it is especially difficult to find the best solutions for them. Advances in technology have led to destructive weapons that only increase the risk of innocent deaths over time.” 

Regarding the situation on the Korean Peninsula, he said, “Above all, given the current situation, it is not an exaggeration to say that the Korean Peninsula is in one of the most dangerous situations in the world. It is leading people to a life of fear.”

Referring to HWPL's DPCW, Welker evaluated that "(DPCW) will be sufficient to solve these problems." In addition, he wrote in his letter, “I strongly support the peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula because it acknowledges the absurdity of the existence of a divided country on the earth as a result of the outdated times caused by the Cold War in the 1960s.”

Chairman Man-hee Lee delivers a lecture during the ‘Pan-European Peace Forum - Plan for Peaceful Reunification and Action through DPCW’ held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany, on May 12th 2018

Before delivering his letter of support, former councillor Welker and Chairman Lee had a conversation the day before, on the 11th, at the Sofitel Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany.

During the interview, former councillor Welker said, "My interest in peace has grown through HWPL.'' He also suggested a plan for a future peace project to Chairman Lee, saying that he hopes to achieve it together with HWPL. This plan also includes the installation of a peace monument to commemorate HWPL's peace activities. To this, Chairman Lee replied, “I think I have met a noble person,” and, “I feel like Heaven has sent someone to comfort and help this person after knowing that he is having a difficult time.”

At that time, HWPL was on their 27th peace tour and, for the first time, the peace delegation presented their peace book ‘The True Story of HWPL’, compiled and produced by the peace movement, detailing all their peace activities to date. Former councillor Welker, who attended HWPL's 5.25 World Peace Walk in Frankfurt on May 25th 2016, was the first recipient of the peace story book. Welker was fascinated by Chairman Lee's practical peace activities and decided to actively support HWPL's activities.

Chairman Lee in dialogue with former councillor Welker, to whom he presented ‘The True Story of HWPL' peace book that details the fruits of HWPL's peace efforts, on May 11th 2018, at the Sofitel Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany. Former councillor Welker was the first person to be gifted 'The True Story of HWPL' peace book.

Welker, who was a local councillor at the time, expressed great interest in the peace activities in Frankfurt, attending every event to deliver a speech, including at the WARP Office meeting.

In addition, following HWPL's peace tour, former local councillor Welker attended the 4th annual commemoration of the WARP Summit in Korea in September 2018. He found a site in the Frankfurt area to install the Peace Monument and recommended a school to become a peace academy that teaches HWPL peace education. He also liaised with the German National Library in Frankfurt to have the peace book, containing the fruits of HWPL's peace movement, on display.

Meanwhile, HWPL visited five European countries including Ukraine, Germany, Sweden, Norway and Romania during their 27th peace tour (May 8-23rd 2018) to gather support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula.

During this tour, HWPL met local government officials, women and youth group leaders, and religious leaders to hold peace forums, sign MOUs, and other meetings for the development of peace within each respective country. In particular, a Peace Forum hosted in five European countries was held under the theme of the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. The forum served as a platform to discuss and implement the global community's joint efforts on the Korean Peninsula issue, which itself is directly related to the stability and peace of the international community.

Participants take a commemorative photo following a meeting for the proliferation of a culture of peace, and support for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula, by former high-ranking European politicians at the National Assembly in Bucharest, Romania, during the 27th Peace Tour on May 19th 2018

Peace!