By CECILIA OLOGUNAGBA

U.S. First Lady, Melania Trump, on Monday presided over historic Security Council session on Children in conflict at the UN headquarters in New York.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the United States, which holds the rotating presidency for March, decided to have Mrs Trump chair the meeting.

Usually, the UN ambassador or senior official of the country holding the presidency takes the gavel.

First Lady Melania Trump statement followed the briefing by UN Under -Secretary General for Political Affairs on the continuing airstrikes

The U.S. First Lady paid tribute to families who have lost their heroes in conflicts.

“My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their heroes, who sacrificed their lives for freedom,” she began.

“Their bravery and dedication will always be remembered.

“I extend my earnest wishes for a swift and smooth recovery to all those who have been injured.

“You are in my thoughts and prayers during these challenging times. The U.S. stands with all of the children throughout the world. I hope soon peace will be yours.”

The United States, which holds the rotating presidency for March, decided to have Ms. Trump chair the meeting. While there have been instances of First Ladies taking part in Security Council meetings, today is the first time a First Lady has presided inside the iconic chamber

Speaking of technology and Education, Ms Trump said that AI had open door to knowledge.

“Today almost anyone, anywhere can access a vast universe of data in the palm of their hand,” the first lady continued.

“Let’s connect everyone to knowledge through AI, including those in the most remote geographic regions of our world.”

In a matter of seconds, she said, without travel, one could quickly learn about another’s beliefs, religions, customs, and histories, adding: “We are open. And it is empowering.”

“The path to peace depends on us taking responsibility to empower our children through education and technology,” she said.

“Security Council members, I encourage you to pledge to safeguard learning in our communities and promote access to heightened education for all.

“I implore you to build a future generation of leaders who embrace peace through education.

“Enduring peace will be achieved when knowledge and understanding are fully valued in all societies,” she said, stressing that her country stands with all children throughout the world.

According to her, the value placed on education by nations’ leaders shapes the core of their countries’ belief systems.

“A nation that makes learning sacred protects its books, its language, its science and language,” she maintained, adding, “It protects its future.”

This, she affirmed, leads to greater understanding, moral reasoning, and tolerance of others.

Earlier, Rosemary DiCarlo addressing a Security Council meeting on children, technology and education in conflict – organised by the United States as a signature event of its March presidency, said children were once again bearing the brunt of violence in the Middle East.

“We have been reminded of this truth over the last two days,” she said.

She noted that schools in Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have closed or shifted to remote learning amid ongoing military operations.

Reports from Iran indicate that dozens of children may have been killed in a strike on an elementary school in Minab, allegations now under review by U.S. authorities. (NAN)

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