UNITED NATIONS — Secretary General António Guterres on Friday described Nawroz as a “precious gift” in a world marked by conflict and division, offering a message of renewal and hope as millions celebrated the ancient spring festival.
“Nawroz is a celebration of new beginnings — a symbol of nature’s rebirth, fresh hope and the arrival of spring,” Mr. Guterres wrote on social media. “In a world rife with conflict, division and strife, the spirit of Nawroz is a precious gift.”
His remarks came as public celebrations of Nawroz were once again banned in Afghanistan, where the Taliban have prohibited the holiday for the third year in a row. Authorities on Friday blocked the traditional flag-raising ceremony at the Sakhi Shrine in Kabul, one of the city’s most prominent rituals marking the new year.
Despite the restrictions, some Afghans quietly observed the holiday in their homes, gathering with family and honoring traditions such as shared meals and spring cleaning.
Nawroz, which dates back more than 3,000 years, is celebrated across parts of the Middle East, Central Asia and the Caucasus, including in Iran, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The United Nations recognized March 21 as International Nawroz Day in 2010, calling it a symbol of peace and cultural solidarity.
