United Nations, Nov 1, (PL).- The United Nations General Assembly studies a resolution draft titled "International Nelson Mandela Day" for its approval at the plenary of that forum.

The initiative was presented by the South African delegation to the UN and is included in point 49 of the Assembly�s agenda, dealing with Culture of Peace.

According to the South African ambassador before the world organization, Baso Sanqcu, the proposed text is a recognition to the former president of that southernmost African nation and his contribution to the fight for democracy and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.

The idea is based on the world celebration last July 18 of the Nelson Mandela Day, on occasion of the 91st birthday of the leader of the struggle against racial discrimination and the apartheid regime in his country.

The South African diplomat said the presented draft has a strong support among the delegations and its approval will recognize Mandela´s services to humankind.

The most recent summit of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, held in the Egyptian city of Sharm El-Sheikh, approved a special declaration that established the International Nelson Mandela Day every July 18.

That document highlighted the long history of the South African leader and his role in the fight for Africa´s liberation, self determination and unity of the continent.

Also it extolled the achievements of Mandela as President elect, his dedication at the service of humankind, to the protection of human rights, reconciliation, the defense of children and most vulnerable sectors.

The heads of Non-Aligned States and Governments also asked the General Assembly of United Nations that in this session it adopts a resolution declaring the 18th of July as International Nelson Mandela Day.