The world had a sigh of relief when the 12 children and their coach were rescued from the cave in Thailand after being trapped there for 17 days. It was the outcome of a very risky and a 'never before' operation that terminated in a cheerful ending. It was however quite unfortunate that one of the Thai divers died in this action. It is worth noting in this whole episode how several countries of the world came forward voluntarily, by sending their trained divers as also rescue equipments, to support the Thai authorities in this manoeuvre. In the past also there have been many such instances when nations have converged their efforts in order to save people.
During extreme natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, tsunami etc., countries have ignored their political differences and have stood together to save the affected public. In March 2014, when Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 went missing, all countries put in their best combined efforts in the search operation. Such incidences have undoubtedly proved the famous saying, 'the brotherhood of men transcends the sovereignty of nations'. If nations would show similar solidarity in combating terrorism, poverty and environmental pollution, the world would certainly be a much better place to live in.
Bharat Shah
Rayners Lane
