UN backs to 'Mandela Day'

New York, 11 Nov-(ANA)-The United Nations General Assembly has declared 18 July Mandela Day, to mark the contribution of Nelson Mandela to world freedom.

The resolution was introduced by South African Ambassador Baso Sangqu.

He described his former president as an icon and a symbol of hope whose life had mirrored United Nations' ideals.

Libyan diplomat Dr Ali Abdussalam Treki, the current General Assembly president, said the move showed the body's "attachment to freedom".

In South Africa, the Nelson Mandela Foundation said it was pleased about the UN's declaration.

"It serves as a catalyst for each and every person around the world to realise that they have the ability to change it through action," said Achmat Dangor, the foundation's chief executive .

"As Mr Nelson Mandela reminded us 'it is in our hands' to create a better world," he added. (ANA)

FA/ANA/11 November 2009---