Friendship is a fundamental element for the prosperity and peace of people worldwide, as well as a crucial foundation for maintaining social harmony. Every year on July 30th, the United Nations celebrates "International Day of Friendship" with the aim of promoting dialogue among different races and cultures, fostering unity, and facilitating reconciliation. In line with this spirit, the independent international news media "Global People Daily News" has organized an online program titled "BFF Without Borders Uniting Hearts and Cultures." The program invites good friends from the United States, Costa Rica, Taiwan, Peru, and Malaysia to share stories of how friendship across international and cultural borders has positively impacted the world. Topics discussed include environmental conservation, flamenco dance, and insights from non-profit organizations.
Jojoh Lepatan, a Catholic missionary, and English conversation teacher from the United States, expressed that the United Nations designated the International Day of Friendship in 2011, recognizing that we are all interconnected as members of the global village. She emphasized the significance of extending hands of friendship to collaboratively change the world and create a better future.
Adriana Orocú Chavarría from Costa Rica, President of the Latin American Union of Sheriff and a judge, introduced the International Friendship Park - Cordillera de Talamanca La Amistad Biosphere Reserve, a joint effort by Costa Rica and Panama to protect ecological diversity. She highlighted that the area not only safeguards endangered flora and fauna but has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is home to Costa Rica's highest peak, "Cerro Chirripó," as well as important water resources like the Teribe and Changuinola rivers, which both countries jointly protect.
Leticia, a flamenco dancer from Taiwan, formed friendships transcending language and culture through her passion for flamenco. Influenced deeply by flamenco dancers and choreographers Marco Flores and Javier Latorre, Leticia frequently organizes flamenco-related events, performances, and master classes in Taiwan, introducing the charm of flamenco dance to a broader audience. During the program, she expressed her deep nostalgia and gratitude for her deceased close friend, the costume designer Rebecca, who consistently supported her work.
Joaquín Leguía Orezzoli, founder and executive director of the Peruvian non-profit organization ANIA Association, shared his heartwarming story of friendship with Lung, who became his lifelong companion. Joaquín mentioned that whenever they faced challenges, Lung would send emails offering practical and spiritual support. Their friendship has spanned around 14 to 17 years, and Joaquín expressed his gratitude not only to Lung but also to other kind-hearted individuals who have supported their efforts in sowing seeds of goodness in children and spreading positive influence worldwide.
Yap Yeh, a volunteer from Malaysia, personally experienced the 513 racial conflict incident in Malaysia in 1969, which fueled his profound desire for peace from a young age. Later, he had the opportunity to join the " Love of the World Cultural Goodwill Group," promoting love, peace, and conscience culture worldwide. The tour was led by Dr. Hong Tao Tze, who is a good friend of President Menezes of São Tomé and Príncipe and President Jammeh of The Gambia. In 2002. Dr. Hong was invited to attend major celebrations in both countries, and Yap was fortunate enough to accompany him. During one of their performances at the celebration, a skinny African child extended a hand, begging for candy. Yap took the child's hand and sang and danced with him, transforming the "begging hand" into a "hand of friendship." This heartwarming moment not only made the child smile but also sparked joy among other children, leaving an unforgettable and lifelong connection between both sides.