UNITED NATIONS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday remembered the millions of people who lost their lives in World War II and asked the world to learn the lessons of 1945.
"We must never forget the Holocaust and the other grave and horrendous crimes committed by the Nazis. The victory over fascism and tyranny in May 1945 marked the beginning of a new era," he said in a message on the 75th anniversary of V-E Day -- May 8, 1945, the day on which the surrender of Germany was announced, officially ending the European phase of World War II.
"An appreciation for international solidarity and our shared humanity led to the birth of the United Nations, with the overriding mission of saving succeeding generations from the scourge of war."
But the world is still suffering the impact of conflict. Even during the current COVID-19 crisis, there are new efforts to divide people and spread hatred, he noted.
"As we mark this 75th anniversary, let's remember the lessons of 1945 and work together to end the pandemic and build a future of peace, safety and dignity for all," said Guterres
