The purpose of this global enterprise is not fundraising or promotion of a political agenda, it simply endeavors to achieve that which is more difficult to raise and collect than money and politics in today’s world – to generate good will among people of all nations.

A relay race is defined as a race run by a team in which each participant covers one section of the total distance relaying the baton to another until the last team member has reached the finish. That is why this is the only race which is a result of a team effort, where the last runner is the sum of the stamina, speed, wishes and endeavors of his predecessors. Still, nothing magnificent can be achieved if those who dare to attempt it do not believe they possess something that raises them above the circumstances they are in.

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed friends,

The principles this run is based on, from the visits to world cultural sites, through the respect of differences and support of accepting different religious beliefs, to paying respects to peace fighters in the whole world and the message to never give up, are the universal principles promoted by the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia where I have the honour to be the first among equals, which is why I would like you to accept our welcome and with it our message which you will relay further in this race. All truly important things are simple and contained in one word: freedom, justice, honour, hope …Our message is a simple one:

May peace, understanding among people and tolerance overcome conflicts, fear and doubt.