Mr and Mrs. Jagdish Gandhi founded CMS in 1959, based upon four fundamental principles of universal values, excellence, global understanding, and service to the community. Throughout the last 40 years, the school has sought to educate its students to become citizens of the world who respect the values of tolerance and peace. CMS was awarded the 2002 UNESCO Prize for Peace Education this year, in recognition of its advocacy for peace and tolerance. I would like to commend Mr. And Mrs. Gandhi, and the CMS teaching staff for having demonstrated its academic excellence and distinction through programs of moral and spiritual education.

The theme of this year’s conference, “Enforceable International Law is Our Need”, is particularly significant at a time when the world is inundated with issues concerning violence, conflict, instability and disorder. The mission of international law, as described by Hersch Lauterpacht in 1950, is “to enhance the stability of international peace, to protect the human rights of every person, and to reduce the abuse of national power.” This principle holds true even in today’s global society. An effective legal system minimizes disputes. By pooling the experience and expertise of distinguished chief justices from around the world, this international conference will make an important contribution to world peace, stability and respect for human dignity.

Taiwan has consistently upheld its international obligations. Moreover, our policies support progressive development of international law and aim to maintain international stability. As Taiwan seeks to take its rightful place, as an official participant and contributor in multilateral institutions such as the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organization (WHO), we value every opportunity to share our experience and insight with other countries in order to make our unique contribution to a permanent world peace.

In closing, I commend City Montessori School for organizing this meaningful event and for making such significant contribution to education over the last 43 years. Congratulations to all of you and best wishes for your continued success.