Congratulations on championing another great cause and event in exhibiting Peace and Harmony: The Divine Spectra of Avalokitesvara and compiling a commemorative Book on this occasion that you dedicate to world peace, harmony and friendship amongst all in the global village.

I am extremely honoured to add to what my distinguished colleagues have contributed by messages to advocating and advancing the friendship that exists between our respective countries. I am confident that the Peace and Harmony good wishes as intended will add to those who advocate and promote world peace.

Your keeness to promote and also concretize the cultural bondage between the Mainland and foreign countries is commendable and it is hoped that this baton will be continuously carried forth, not only by you as a champion of business and compassion for your country, but by those who share the same compassion for peace and harmony towards mankind.

Your generosity and outreach to promote what is good is commonly known and this particular event amongst others displays what an extraordinary person you are.

I have had the priviledge of visiting the sacred places surrounding the Putus Mountain in Zhejiang Province (PRC) where Guan Yin is worshipped and was fascinated by the stories told on how compassion for others can inspire you into bringing peace and tranquility to the world.

Your exhibition illustrates two intrinsic values as stated. One is the love for peace and harmony and the other is that lies in the pair of hands we all have in which we can make everything and bring anything to realization. In any modern day debate today this will surely be the fundamentals of any school of thought of what was practiced in China then and which is so relevant to the phenomenon that is China today.

The Consulate General of South Africa is not only mandated to promote South Africa and its culture as a key performance area, but also to learn about the host countries in terms of what their values and culture are. I have been blessed and priviledged in many ways to be granted several opportunities not only to learn about your wonderful country but also to experience the very essence as to what your exhibition is all about.

South Africa has the largest Buddhist Monastery on the African continent and probably the largest outside of Asia. My countrymen have the right and are priviledged to practice this particular way of life and is protected in the South Africa Bill of Rights.

Paul, thank you for your great interest and commitment to my country. All your endeavours are greatly appreciated and through your compassion many of my countrymen are happy and content with the employment you have provided bringing peace and happiness to many homes.

May all your future endeavours be crowned with the success you so richly deserved and may you be blessed with good health, prosperity and the wisdom to do what is best for all.

Mario George Masher
Consul-General
Republic of South Africa