Positive Changes in Countries Part 31 of a Multi-part Series – Respectful Governments, Respectful Citizens: Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan

My country, Japan, is the laureate of Shining World Leadership Awards for Compassion, Generosity, and Animal Protection. We have also had the honor of being visited by Supreme Master Ching Hai. On May 7, 2000, during a lecture given in Tokyo, Master spoke of Japan’s success as it relates to the inner focus of her people. “Everything even in this physical world, if we want to be successful in anything, we need concentration. And I think the Japanese people know that best.” Japan is also pursuing green goals. In the nation’s 2021 white paper on the environment, our wise government proposed plant-based meat alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

My country, officially the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is located in the Northern Arabian Peninsula. Jordan is replete with cultural and spiritual treasures. His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein received the 2019 Lamp of Peace Award, for his continuous efforts to promote human rights, interfaith dialog, peace and harmony in the Middle East and the world. Her Majesty Queen Rania Al-Abdullah, a recipient of the Shining World Leadership Award for Compassion, has initiated many campaigns to protect the rights of women, children, and vulnerable refugees. Referred to by many as an oasis of peace and stability, Jordan has shown extraordinary hospitality toward refugees. Finally, to fight desertification and climate change and protect biodiversity, the Jordanian government launched a reforestation program in partnership with Saudi Arabia.

Kazakhstan has committed to developing renewable energy. With policy reform and financial support from the government, Kazakhstan began implementing its goals in 2020 for greener energy. The government of Kazakhstan has also implemented system-wide reforms to make the launch and operation of businesses much easier. Kazakhstan has also shown great leadership in fostering understanding among different faiths. The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, in the capital Nur-Sultan, was constructed primarily as the convening place for the Congress of World and Traditional Religions. In addition, in 2018, the wise government of Kazakhstan launched the Digital Kazakhstan Program to accelerate economic development and improve citizens’ quality of life.