To all our brothers and sisters who are celebrating around the world, and to the countless others who, due to the cruel circumstances in our war-torn homeland, cannot mark this occasion, we extend a warm greeting. Today marks the height of Diwali, and the final day of the dark moon. Tomorrow marks a new day, and the beginning of the bright moon, but tonight, millions upon millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists will come together in a shared observance and will take it upon themselves to light the traditional diya to bring light and warmth into their homes. In this way they celebrate the victory of light over darkness, of good over evil, and of knowledge over ignorance.

For Myanmar, this celebration takes on a deeper significance this year. As we are beset within our homeland by the darkness, the evil, the ignorance, of the military dictatorship. Too many of our people cannot celebrate this or any other festival as they have neither food to eat nor homes to light. So on this day, let us extend our hopes of happiness, safety, and prosperity to all people, of all nations and faiths celebrating Diwali, and our hope for the swift deliverance of those who cannot. As you celebrate the light, be ever vigilant of the darkness in the world. And let us all resolve to be the light for those who are beset by darkness.

Sincerely,

H.E. Dr. Sasa
Union Minister of Ministry of International Cooperation
Spoke Person of Nation Unity Government
Former Special Envoy to United Nations