World Conf to focus on Gandhian philosophy

New Delhi, Jan 17: Eminent personalities and Nobel Laureates including Lech Walesa, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Mohammad Yunus, besides Heads of States from various countries will participate in the international conference to mark the Mahatma Gandhi Satyagraha Centenary Commemoration to be held here on January 29 and 30.

To be organised by the Indian National Congress, the Conference will be addressed by Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, among others, Minister of State for External Affairs and Convenor of the Organising Committee Anand Sharma told mediapersons here.

Mr Sharma said the Conference had generated global interest which was reflected in the impressive response extended to world leaders and heads of major poliltical parties. Six Heads of State and Government, 45 Ministers and leadership delegations from more than 80 countries had confirmed their participation.

He said a total number of 300 delegates were expected to attend the conference. Besides foreign delegates, a representative group of eminent Indians, including noted Gandhians, academics and activists representing institutions and civil society organisations committed to Gandhian philosophy would attend the conference.

The Conference would be structured around four papers and presentations by eminent scholars and Gandhians. The subjects are- conflict resolution and peace-building through non-violent means, Gandhian philosophy for poverty eradication, dialogue among peoples and cultures and towards a nuclear weapons-free and non-violent world order.

Internationally renowned artistes Mallika Sarabhai and Amjad Ali Khan will be participating in a special cultural programme produced for the occasion, Mr Sharma said.

UNI