Nelson Mandela International Day is being observed today to celebrate the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, the first black president of South Africa.
Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanity as a human rights lawyer, an international peacemaker and the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa.
On Mandela Day, people around the world are inspired to take action and bring about change by making a difference in their communities and make the world a better place to live.
Pakistan, South Africa relations
South Africa and Pakistan established full diplomatic relations in 1994. Nelson Mandela visited Pakistan in 1992 and 1999.
Mandela regarded deep respect for Pakistan in the context of the struggle for independence and a special affinity to Pakistan, as it is one of the few countries that Mandela visited twice.
Mandela Day
The Pakistani government presented Nishan-e-Pakistan, the country’s highest civil award, to the former South African president. The UN system celebrates International Mandela Day on 18 July to commemorate the great and iconic leader and his legacy.
‘Mandela Day’ is a global call-to-action for people to change the world.
Nelson Mandela's top quotes
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
“I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.”
“It always seems impossible until it's done.”
“Many people in this country have paid the price before me and many will pay the price after me.”
“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
