My country, Iran, is the second largest in the Middle East. Iran is the recipient of two Shining World Leadership Awards for Compassion for her noble lifesaving acts toward our animal co-inhabitants. The honorable government of Iran is also a four-time recipient of the Shining World Leadership Award for Good Governance. A continued priority for Iran’s leaders is the protection of women’s rights. I

Iceland is a Nordic island country famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and healing hot springs. Despite its small population of 342,000, Iceland is a highly developed country. Today, 100% of Iceland’s electricity is renewable, with hydro- and geothermal electricity contributing 75% and 25%, respectively. Geothermal energy also provides 87% of the nation’s hot wat

Reserve on land, Honduras is a world-renowned biodiversity hotspot. Since 2018, at least 60% of our total national electricity is now derived from renewable sources. And in 2019, Honduras was part of an eight-country pledge to preserve the Five Great Forests of Mesoamerica, one of which is the Moskitia. Hong Kong, has had the honor of being visited by our Beloved Supreme Master Ching Hai. “

My South American country, Guyana, means “Land of Many Waters.” Along with four large rivers that run through the land, there is the spectacular Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall by volume. We also show our care for these God-given treasures through sustainable forest management and green development strategies that protect biodiversity and rainforests. Another preservation

Guatemala is best known for her magnificent mountainous landscape, rich Mayan heritage, and the colorful city Antigua. Thankfully, the people of Guatemala have made considerable strides in conserving our beautiful rainforests. Moreover, health care is becoming more accessible in Guatemala! What’s more, the Guatemalan government has taken major steps to improve animal welfare. A comprehensive law p

The people of Ghana wish you spiritual upliftment. Our country is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, and we are neighbored by Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo. To improve the life quality of its citizens, the Ghanaian government had been implementing programs like LEAP, or Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty," which provides both cash payments for those in need as well as free hea

Africa’s smallest country, The Gambia, opens onto the Atlantic coast on the west and borders Senegal in all three other directions. On May 28, 2010, The Gambia took a giant step toward gender equality when His Excellency President Yahya Jammeh signed the Women’s Act. The Gambian government has also been working to protect citizens through a National Adaptation Plan to build resilience to climate c

Taiwan (Formosa) is a recipient of the Shining World Leadership Award for Compassion. Located in the ocean waters neighboring mainland China, Japan, and the Philippines, this island nation was originally called "Ilha Formosa" by Portuguese explorers, which means "Beautiful Island." The Taiwanese (Formosan) people are known for their inventiveness and creativity, combining science with colorful des

Located in a region known as the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia existed as a civilization millions of years ago, based on archaeological finds. Ethiopia achieved a wonderful stabilizing change when His Excellency, Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed forged a peace accord with neighboring country Eritrea in 2018. The following year, His Excellency’s efforts were recognized as he became not only a Nobel Peace Prize laureate but also a Shining World Leadership Award for Peace laureate. The government of Ethiopia was also awarded a Shining World Leadership Award for Earth Protection for launching the first waste-to-energy plant in Africa. One organization that has also been working to improve the lives of both Ethiopian people and animals is the International Fund for Africa (IFA). Cofounded by Ethiopian Seble Nebiyeloul and Dr. Anteneh Roba of the USA, this organization offers nutritious plant-based solutions for communities in need. Supreme Master Ching Hai: “Gratefully present Dr. Anteneh Roba and Seble Nebiyeloul, the Shining World Compassion Award, with a humble, loving gift of US$10,000 towards your noble organization, the International Fund for Africa.” The Republic of Fiji is a beautiful archipelago country of over 300 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. In 2014, the Fijian government introduced a program giving free access to elementary and secondary education for all. Initiatives were also launched to help prepare students for professions that support the island nation’s sustainable economic growth. In addition, female students have been encouraged to enroll in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics classes for their equal opportunity in pursuing 21st century careers. Finland can be found in Northern Europe, next to the Baltic Sea. Thanks to the government’s support of environmental conservation, Finland ranks highly on the international list of clean, green countries. With government efforts toward sustainable forestry, over 70% of Finland’s land area is now tree covered. To further expand renewable energy development such as wind power, the Finnish Parliament has approved the phasing out of coal-fired power by the year 2029.

Historically, Eritrea is one of the earliest countries to adopt Christianity and is also home to the world’s first African mosque, the Mosque of the Companions, in Massawa. On September 17, 2018, Eritrea and Ethiopia officials agreed to end decades of previous discord when they signed a peace accord. More recently, the two countries re-opened free travel between their borders. The development has focused on strengthening relations in trade and culture as well as establishing joint economic zones. The health of the Eritrean people has also improved, especially for children. Thanks to government initiatives, and the commitment of citizens, an 80% reduction in infant mortality has been achieved along with a 99% success rate in child vaccinations. Furthermore, polio and measles have been eradicated. Estonia is situated in northern Europe, with more than 2,000 offshore islands in addition to its large mainland. As the first country in the world to do so, Estonia has digitalized its economic structure with the e-Estonia initiative, utilizing Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Through harnessing wind, biomass and hydro power, Estonia has reduced its dependence on oil shale as a main source of electricity. Many Estonian technology companies have signed a Green Pledge to make their operations completely sustainable by 2030. Veganism has also been on the rise in Estonia. The country has experienced ‘a vegan boom’ over the past few years, with an increase in vegan-related Facebook groups as well as vegan cafes and restaurants appearing throughout Tallinn. Eswatini is a small country with a big heart for all its wildlife. The beautiful landscapes and wilderness of the kingdom are home to thousands of species of fauna and flora. Eswatini is well known for its strict laws to conserve the rhinoceros and other animal species. The Game Act provides comprehensive protection for wildlife within all parks and reserves. The government has implemented a National Agriculture Investment Plan (SNAIP) 2015-2025, whose goal is to increase agricultural productivity, reduce rural poverty and to secure a national food supply reserve.

Located at the cross paths between North Africa, Southwestern Asia and Europe, my country, Egypt, is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with over 5000 years of history. Its iconic monuments, the Giza Necropolis, the Great Sphinx, as well as the ruins of Memphis, Thebes, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. In other news, did you know that ninety-six percent of Egypt’s land is covered by deserts? Even so, in December 2018, Egypt launched the world’s largest greenhouse project to build 7,100 greenhouses over 34,000 acres of land. In addition to the creation of over 75,000 new jobs, the greenhouses are expected to grow approximately 1.5 million metric tons of vegetables annually, which quadruples its current agricultural production. Meanwhile, the water usage is also reduced by about 80 percent compared to traditional farming. Thank you, the government of Egypt, for actively adopting the most sustainable organic-like farming for the health of your people and our beloved Mother Earth. Last but surely not the least, while veganism was rarely known in Egypt just a decade ago, today, our vegan population is growing ever rapidly. The Republic of El Salvador, which means republic of “The Savior” or “Lord Jesus Christ.” Bordered by Honduras to the northeast and Guatemala to the northwest, and with the Pacific Ocean on the south, El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated country in Central America. In 1992, peace accords were successfully signed which ended 12 years of civil unrest, the agreements initiated visible change for the country. Since the early 1990s, the government started economic reforms, giving way to a steadily growing economy. The per capita income reached approximately US$8000 in 2017. Blessed with lush forests and spectacular animals, Equatorial Guinea is a Central African country close to the Equator and the Gulf of Guinea. Home to approximately 1.4 million people, Equatorial Guinea is one of the smallest African countries. While rapidly developing, Equatorial Guinea strives to conserve the natural environment and help curb global warming, as promised in 2014 by His Excellency Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President of Equatorial Guinea and Shining World Leadership Award for Compassion Recipient.

The Commonwealth of Dominica, a small island country rich in natural beauty, is part of a group called the Lesser Antilles, situated in the Caribbean Sea. Dominica’s treasures include Morne Trois Pitons National Park, which was recognized by UNESCO in 1997 as a World Heritage Site. Protected areas such as these are home to a variety of plants and animals found only in Dominica, like our national bird, the Imperial Amazon, as well as the Red-necked Parrot and the Blue-headed Hummingbird. Moreover, following a resolution that banned single-use plastic and styrofoam in 2019, the Dominican government distributed cloth shopping bags to households across the nation in February 2020 as encouragement for all citizens to go plastic-free. The long, 1,300-kilometer coastline of the Dominican Republic is home to vast constellations of coral reefs and unique marine wildlife. Some of these are unique reef-building species that are found only in the Caribbean region. In 2018, the Southeast Marine Sanctuary was established as a new marine protection area covering 786,300 hectares of coral reef environment. The capital city of Santo Domingo is also home to a flourishing vegan scene. Plant-based dining is on the rise in this buzzing three-million people metropolis. Healthy-living enthusiasts, animal lovers and tourists alike can enjoy the city’s growing selection of delicious vegan offerings. The Republic of Ecuador, a small country located on the northwestern coast of South America, awes the world with her diverse landscape and colorful flora and fauna. Home to five UNESCO World Heritage sites that include the vast Sangay National Park as well as the unique Galápagos Islands, Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. Toward the goal of environmental balance, Ecuador has supported the adoption of sustainable farming practices as well as efforts to protect water, land and forests. Ecuador has also joined a collective of Latin American nations that are striving for 70% renewable energy usage by 2030. A vegan trend is also on the rise in Ecuador. There are now over 100 vegan and vegetarian restaurants featured in cities throughout the country.

Our three generous countries: the Czech Republic, Denmark, and Djibouti.Nestled in the very heart of Europe, the Czech Republic, or Czechia, was once an ancient kingdom, with magnificent towers, cathedrals and castles that still adorn the land today. During Her 1999 European Lecture tour, Supreme ‘Master Ching Hai’ was invited to the nation’s beautiful capital city of Prague, where She spo

Let’s talk about some positive news and share stories about our courageous countries. As a country that began turning to organic farming methods nearly 30 years ago, Cuba has become a leader in sustainable agriculture. Along with a decrease in the use of pesticides is a significant increase in produce production. To address the effects of climate change on this vulnerable Caribbean island, our farsighted Cuban government has outlined a comprehensive strategy called “Life Task” (Tarea Vida). Measures include crop diversification, reducing construction and agriculture in low-lying coastal areas, restoring protective eco-systems, and reforestation, as vital steps to protect both people and food production. In addition, Cuba has committed to strengthening sustainable energy development, with plans to increase renewable energies to 24%, thus eliminating six million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year. Finally, the Cuban government has developed an outstanding healthcare system that offers comprehensive preventive and primary care to the entire population. Curaçao is a small beautiful island in the southernmost tip of the Caribbean Sea. Despite being a small island, Curaçao has one of the busiest seaports in the world in terms of total cargo handled. In addition to its ocean-related business activities, Curaçao has also been making efforts to preserve vulnerable elements of the marine environment such as coral reefs. In recent years, the government has also endeavored to develop tourism in Curaçao. With the help of the Curaçao Hotel & Tourism Association (CHATA), hotels and restaurants in Curaçao have been working to expand their vegan offerings. In the capital city of Willemstad, restaurants featuring Japanese, Asian, Italian, Dutch and Caribbean cuisine also offer many vegan options. In an effort to protect both inhabitants and the environment, His Excellency Nicos Anastasiades, President of the Republic of Cyprus, announced a government climate initiative on June 5, 2018. The plan includes a €30 million (US$35 million) climate-change research center to be housed in the Cyprus Institute in Nicosia, the nation’s leading multidisciplinary research institution. Cyprus is also expanding in a vegan-friendly direction. Many of the country’s traditional dishes center around the tasty chickpea, and Cyprus is now up to 94 restaurants that are either vegan or vegan-friendly.

Costa Ricans are friendly, easygoing and happy people. Costa Rica has opened its borders with loving arms to neighboring refugees in need. In addition, many far-sighted environmental policies have been put in place, coupled with expanded agriculture and the modernization of the nation. It has long been recognized as the greenest and happiest country in the world. Animal welfare in Costa Rica has also seen a great leap! The benevolent law symbolizes the loving kindness of Costa Ricans toward animals. One of the essential improvements undertaken by Côte d'Ivoire was its Emergency Infrastructure Renewal Project. Launched in 2012, this development has brought water and electricity to many homes. There have been many other positive changes in Côte d'Ivoirer in recent years, such as education and teacher training for women. A special focus is being placed on science and technology for women. Plant-based farming has become a staple for farmers in Côte d'Ivoire. Apart from its diverse and natural splendor, Croatia has been a beacon of light in both humanitarian and animal rights. As a European Union transit country for traveling refugees, Croatia has insisted on keeping its borders open for free passage as well as providing shelter and assistance for those with health issues. Croatia further extends its compassion toward animals. In early 2017, Croatia joined the Fur Free Alliance and implemented a full ban on fur farming. With a growing awareness of animal rights across the country, Croatia is also becoming more vegan-friendly.

In Comoros, eighty percent of the rural population relies on rain to nourish their agriculture. With the help of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and a partnership with United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Comorian government launched a US$60 million project with the goal of “ensuring climate-resilient water supplies in the Comoros Islands.” With year-round operation of the supply facilities planned, reliable water access will be available to 90% of the population. Lastly, With our colorful plant life in the Comoros, eating from the earth has never been so refreshing.We are seeing vegan options springing up like mushrooms. The government of DRC is establishing a more peaceful, prosperous and healthy country for its citizens. Following more than two decades of turbulence, the DRC is achieving greater harmony through projects in healthcare from mothers and children, broader electricity access, and increased water supply. Protection for the vast country’s precious animals has also been at the forefront. I am thrilled to tell you that there's even a Loving Hut here in Kinshasa! The Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) is also well Known for our efforts in conservation and continues to protect the environment! Recently, the country is making outstanding progress in establishing peace, improving the well-being of her citizens, and environmental conservation. The Republic of the Congo has been advancing in peace after reaching an accord with an opposition group on December 23, 2017.

With a multi-ethnic society of European and indigenous Indian ancestry, Chile is known for political freedom and cultural tolerance. Chile passed legislation in 2018 to strengthen women’s leadership in politics and public enterprises, requiring at least 40% of the candidates standing for Parliament to be women. Not only that, the ethical veg lifestyle has taken Chile by storm. In 2018, research fo

Cabo Verde is a growing, tropical paradise tourist destination that’s vegan friendly and going green. Cabo Verde is indeed plant-based as well as green, with more and more restaurants offering delicious, healthy vegan options on their menus. Last but not least, women in Cabo Verde have come a long way since the country’s independence in 1975. The government of the Central African Republic is steadfastly moving toward being a peaceful, prosperous and healthy country for its citizens. In February 2019, representatives from the CAR government and 14 opposition groups met in the capital city of Khartoum, Sudan for first ever face-to-face peace talks. On February 6, the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation was signed by all parties. Chad has been one of the most impoverished countries in Africa, and yet we are also among the world’s top refugee accepting countries. The government of Chad has also been working on policies that help displaced people. Chad joined the African Rhino Conservation Phan in partnership with 11 other African countries. This plan hopes to provide safe passage within and between countries, to increase the population of rhinos throughout Africa.

From 1995 to 2018, Cambodia’s economy has enjoyed an annual growth rate of 8%, making it one of the fastest growing economies in the world, thanks to robust garment exports and a prosperous tourist trade. Cambodia also protects its natural resources. Veganism is also rising in Cambodia. In the capital city Phnom Penh alone, we have 59 vegetarian-friendly restaurants. In 2018, Cameroon and its neig

Today we are going to share with you many positive changes from our home countries. With God’s grace, organic agriculture in Bulgaria has had the highest rate of expansion in the whole of Europe, more than tripling in recent years. Moreover, Bulgaria is taking a step closer to completely banning fur trade. In the last few years, veganism has seen exponential growth in Bulgaria. Now let me introduce positive changes in my beautiful country, Burkina Faso. Burkina Faso has shown positive changes in many aspects including increased access to natural resources, drinking water quality, health care and the empowerment of woman and the youth. Now let’s hear from Gloria about her lovely country, Burundi. According to the United Nations Children’s Found(UNICEF), the percentage of children attending primary school increased from 59% in 2005 to 96% in 2011. Burundi has also achieved gender parity in primary education with equal numbers of boys and girls.