By Dennis Okechukwu
World Media Organization Urges Nations to Transform International Friendship Day into ‘Peaceful Friendship Day’
The Editor-in-Chief of the World Media Organization, Gautam Karve, has called on countries around the world to transform International Friendship Day into a global platform for peace, reconciliation, and the resolution of conflicts.
In a message issued on August 2, 2026, Karve appealed to nations currently engaged in armed conflicts to put aside their differences and embrace dialogue and friendship, arguing that such a move could help bring ongoing wars to an end and inspire a more peaceful world.
According to him, if countries at war chose friendship over hostility, the occasion could evolve into what he described as “Peaceful Friendship Day”—a day dedicated not only to celebrating personal relationships but also to fostering harmony and lasting cooperation among nations.
Karve urged governments worldwide to make a collective commitment to building new friendships, promoting constructive dialogue, and prioritising peace over conflict.
“I sincerely appeal to all countries to make a collective effort to transform this International Friendship Day into a Peaceful Friendship Day by building new bonds of friendship, promoting dialogue, and choosing peace over war,” he said.
He further expressed hope that the observance would become a symbol of global unity and reconciliation.
“Let this International Friendship Day be remembered not only as a celebration of friendship between individuals but also as the beginning of renewed friendship among nations. May this day encourage the world to replace conflict with cooperation, mistrust with mutual respect, and war with lasting peace. Together, let us strive to make Peaceful Friendship Day a symbol of hope for all humanity,” Karve stated.
International Friendship Day is officially recognised by the United Nations and observed globally on July 30, while several countries also celebrate the occasion on the first Sunday of August. Karve’s proposal seeks to broaden the significance of the day by encouraging world leaders to use it as an opportunity to advance diplomacy, strengthen international relationships, and promote enduring peace.