The International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) inaugurated its Global Region 3, appointing H.E Maria de Fatima Afonso Villa Nova, the First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe, to its advisory committee. This event, held during the South Korea–Africa Summit, marks a significant step in IWPG's mission to promote global peace initiatives.

Seoul,(June 10, 2024) V7N– The International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) held the inauguration of its Global Region 3, featuring the appointment of H.E Maria de Fatima Afonso Villa Nova, the First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe, as a member of the IWPG advisory committee. This event coincided with the South Korea–Africa Summit.
 
H.E Maria de Fatima Afonso Villa Nova, the First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe, at the inauguration of IWPG Global Region 3, held during the South Korea–Africa Summit. The event marks a significant milestone in global peace efforts. Photo By: IWPG
 
The IWPG has maintained a strong relationship with First Lady Villa Nova, who delivered a congratulatory speech at the 2023 International Women's Peace Conference. Her ongoing collaboration with the IWPG underscores her commitment to peace initiatives. During the inauguration, discussions focused on establishing a peace committee in São Tomé and Príncipe, with aims to promote peace education for children and organize an international peace-themed art competition.
 
Heo Eun-Ju, Regional Director of IWPG Global Region 3, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with the First Lady, stating, "I am grateful to be able to work with H.E First Lady as the IWPG advisor committee. I hope for more active cooperation for peace hand in hand."
 
First Lady Villa Nova conveyed her enthusiasm for the partnership, remarking, "We want IWPG to visit São Tomé and Príncipe, and we are all one in peace."
 
IWPG is a globally recognized non-governmental organization (NGO) registered with the UN ECOSOC and UN DGC. Headquartered in South Korea, IWPG boasts over 110 branches and 660 cooperative organizations worldwide. The organization’s mission is to achieve sustainable world peace through initiatives such as the International Women Peace Network, promoting a culture of peace, and collaborating with women's organizations to advocate for the legislation of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).
 
The partnership with the First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe marks a significant step in IWPG's efforts to extend its peace activities globally. The planned initiatives in São Tomé and Príncipe, including children's peace education and the international peace art competition, are expected to foster a stronger culture of peace in the region and contribute to IWPG's overarching goal of sustainable global peace.
 
IWPG Press Release.
 
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