Accra, July 17, GNA - Vice President John Dramani Mahama, on Friday appealed to Ghanaians to avoid practices that could result in conflicts, confusion, disaffection and destruction, to ensure national development.

"We must all subscribe to all the principles that will help us bridge and forge durable partnerships towards the accomplishment of the common goals of peace security and stability as important elements for the growth and prosperity of any nation", he said.

Vice President Mahama made the call in a speech read on his behalf at the commemoration of this year's Nelson Mandela International Day for Freedom, Justice and Democracy, in Accra on Saturday.

The programme was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration in collaboration with the United Nations General Assembly.

It was to recognise the support and the efforts of Mr. Nelson Mandela, Former President of South towards Africa's struggle for liberation, unity as well as his outstanding contributions to the creation of a non-racial South Africa.

The Vice President said that the history of Mr. Mandela represented a common victory for justice, peace and human dignity to all Africans.

Vice President Mahama called on Ghanaians to emulate Mr Mandela through peaceful but resolute efforts to promote justice, fairness and equality in the country and the world.

"The essence of this day must equally inspire us to imbibe the virtues of remaining peaceful and seeking amicable solution to problems that confront us. The history of Mr. Mandela should therefore, reinforce our collective belief in justice and strengthen our confidence in the nobility of the human soul and sustain all our hopes for a glorious life for all" he said.

Vice President Mahama noted that Mr. Mandela's dedication to the service of humanity in the fields of conflict resolution, racial relations, gender equality, rights of children and reconciliation were values that would forever by cherished through out the world.

The Vice President also saluted Mr. Mandela for his contribution to the promotion of democracy and culture of peace.

Madam Anli Von Maltitz, South African High Commissioner to Ghana, said the occasion had offered the world the platform to honour and celebrate the life, values and achievements of Mr Nelson Mandela, who struggled to ensure justice and freedom for his people.

She asked citizens of countries all over the world to become self determined and to take charge of their own destiny as Mandela's life portrayed.

Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary-General, in a speech read on his behalf, described Mr. Nelson Mandela as an inspiration to people, an achievement that was not backed by money or power.

The UN Secretary-General said that Mr. Mandela's accomplishments came at a great personal cost to himself and his family, adding that his sacrifice did not only benefit his own nation but made the world a better place for all people.

In November last year, the UN declared 18th July as Nelson Mandela International Day, to be observed annually in recognition of his contributions to the culture of peace, freedom, human rights and race relations.

This year's celebration would also mark the 92nd birthday of the former anti-apartheid leader.