On 19 February 2008, the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, supported the Asian Cultural Exchange Association in the opening of a week long exhibit entitled “The Message from Children about War and Peace.”

The exhibit, held in the Secretariat Lobby of the United Nations Headquarters, showcased artwork created by children from all over the world between the ages 4 – 15 years old. The artwork centered around the theme “war and peace,” and were created in different mediums, including painting, drawing, calligraphy, as well as computer graphics.

Mr. Sergio Duarte, the High Representative for Disarmament and Ambassador Jiro Kodera made the opening remarks at the ceremony to open the exhibit. Ambassador Kodera reminded the audience about the impact of war on children and he noted that in many cases, children bear the brunt of poverty and violence which results from war. He called on the UN to look at their message through this exhibit and use it as a reminder of their duty to create a world as colorful and beautiful as the children had painted in their pictures.

Following the opening remarks, Mr. Hiramasa Kimata, a master calligrapher, wrote messages of peace with ink and paper. Japanese traditional tea and sweets were also served.

The Asian Cultural Exchange Association (ACEA) is a non-profit organization based in Tokyo, Japan, which promotes mutual understanding and cultural exchange.