I would like to extend my deep respect and good wishes to all. It is a great honor and gives me immense joy to take part in the World Peace Forum 2003 organized by The Australian Association of Yoga in Daily Life.

The needs for "forums-for-peace" have never been greater at this time when the world is faced with imminent threat of violence. The greatest victims inevitably are the innocent, the women and our children. It is imperative that we create a broader global awareness urgently on the principals of nonviolence as a means of lasting peace. It is at times such as these especially when our religious leaders must raise their voices and do all within their powers to prevent violence and conflict.

I have a firm belief and faith that non-violence is the key to global survival. From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate and applaud Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda for this very timely initiative and I wish that the conference achieves all its objectives. The principles of Jainism "Live and Let Live" must be embodied in our society.

I pray for the success of the World Peace Forum 2003 and hope that the leadership in the world can bring forth a new perspective to age-old problems, problems that seem to have no solution, that all likeminded gatherings of persons of higher view may find the means to end strife and bring the happiness that we seek to all.

It is only through the demonstration of unity and common purpose, through the teachings and practice of wisdom and compassion that we may collectively find a way to bring more harmony and peace amongst our family of man.

May all beings have peace and the causes for peace.