I think, if you have enough inner resources, then you can live in isolation for long periods of time and not feel diminished by it.

Peace as a goal is an ideal which will not be contested by any government or nation, not even the most belligerent.

There is nothing to compare with the courage of ordinary people whose names are unknown and whose sacrifices pass unnoticed. The courage that dares without recognition, without the protection of media attention, is a courage that humbles and inspires and reaffirms our faith in humanity.

What I have experienced is nothing compared to what political prisoners in prisons suffer.

Leaders of political parties need to keep in contact with the people; that's what it's all about. If violence were to erupt, I am fairly confident that we could control our people. Whether or not the authorities can control theirs is another matter altogether.

I've always thought that the best solution for those who feel helpless is for them to help others.

Calamities that are not the result of purely natural phenomena usually have their origins, distant and obscure though they may be, in common human failings.