UN peace messenger Muhammad Ali encourages Afghan children to prepare for future

Wrapping up his visit to Afghanistan, United Nations Messenger of Peace Muhammad Ali today issued an open letter to the country's children encouraging them to prepare for the future.

The former boxing champ said young Afghans would succeed if they readied their minds for the challenges of life, by studying hard, respecting teachings and following guidance.

He also exhorted them to prepare their bodies, by practicing physical activity and sports, and to have faith, which, he said, "will help you through the most difficult days."

Mr. Ali said he had seen in Afghanistan that the humanitarian community had achieved much by working together with the country's government and people. "To see young girls studying, knowing that they had been denied opportunities to learn for many years, was inspiring."

But above all, his visit showed him not just the Afghanistan of today, but of the future. "That tomorrow will be your tomorrow, and the world must not fail you," he said.

The Peace Messenger also voiced gratitude to the Afghan children. "I want to thank you, my young friends, for showing me how strong you are in spite of the hardships your country still faces," he said. "You are the life and soul of Afghanistan."