The United Nations in New York today marked the International Day of Peace with the annual ringing of the peace bell and calls for combatants worldwide to lay down their arms and observe a day of ceasefire and non-violence.

This year’s ceremony was dedicated to the more than 65 million people forced to flee their homes to escape conflict and persecution.

"When more and more doors and minds are being closed to refugees, let us show solidarity," Secretary-General António Guterres said at the ceremony, which focuses attention this year on the spirit of Together, a global initiative led by the UN to promote respect, safety and dignity for refugees and migrants.

"Let us highlight the shared benefits of migration to economies and to nations. When others receive the support they need and deserve, we are all more secure and better off," he added.

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Photo: UN