UNITED NATIONS -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for efforts to promote mutual understanding and global solidarity through dialogue.

He made the appeal on the occasion of the first anniversary of the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.

Today, that mission is more urgent than ever, noted Guterres at a thematic dialogue to mark the first anniversary of the International Day.

"The United Nations was built on a fundamental conviction: dialogue is the path to peace," he said. "On this first International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations, we celebrate that conviction and the rich diversity of civilizations as a force to promote mutual understanding and global solidarity."

Where dialogue is missing, ignorance fills the void, he said. "Around the world, we hear rising voices of intolerance and xenophobia, amplified by online misinformation and hate speech. In our fractured world, dialogue is not optional, it is essential for building bridges of understanding and trust."

The International Day is a call to action, to listen, to speak, to connect, noted Guterres. "Let's answer hate with humanity. Let's listen with open hearts and open minds. Let's choose dialogue over division and let us strive to be one human family, rich in diversity, united in solidarity, and equal in dignity and human rights."

Proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 80 countries, a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly last year designates June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.

Monday's event was organized by the permanent missions to the United Nations of China, Egypt, Peru, Spain and Uzbekistan as well as the UN Alliance of Civilizations.

UN General Assembly President Philemon Yang said in his speech that diversity defines human civilization and that dialogue is essential among civilizations.

The planet is home to 8 billion people, comprising over 5,000 ethnic groups, who speak over 7,000 languages between them, Yang said, noting that with such abundant diversity -- and a wealth of voices and needs -- mutual respect and dialogue are essential.

"We must reinforce the common bonds and values that drive human progress and support peace ... Let us celebrate the unity and diversity of civilizations, and promote tolerance, dialogue and inclusiveness toward a better world for all," he said.