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Welcome, everyone, to this deeply inspiring and heartfelt conversation. Today, we gather some of the world's most compassionate souls to discuss one of the most profound journeys any human can undertake—the journey from personal loss to a vision of peace.
Joining us is Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish, a man who has faced unimaginable tragedy with extraordinary grace and resilience. After losing his daughters and niece during the Gaza War, Dr. Abuelaish chose a path not of hatred, but of forgiveness and advocacy for peace. His story is one of turning profound personal pain into a mission for justice and reconciliation.
Alongside him, we have the remarkable Malala Yousafzai, whose courage in the face of violence and unwavering commitment to girls' education have inspired millions around the world. Her belief in the power of education to transform lives and foster peace is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
We also have Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a tireless advocate for truth and reconciliation. His work in South Africa during and after apartheid shows us that acknowledging past injustices and fostering a culture of forgiveness are essential steps towards healing and unity.
Mother Teresa's legacy of compassion for the most vulnerable among us continues to resonate deeply. Her life's work teaches us that small acts of kindness and profound empathy can change the world, one person at a time.
And finally, Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor who dedicated his life to ensuring that the horrors of the past are never forgotten. His advocacy for human rights and dignity reminds us that memory and education are powerful tools in the fight for a better future.
Through their stories and insights, we explore the transformative power of forgiveness, the crucial role of education, the healing potential of healthcare, and the strength to turn personal pain into a force for peace. This conversation is not just about reflecting on the past but envisioning a future where peace and understanding prevail.
So, sit back and join us as we delve into these profound themes, guided by the wisdom and experiences of some of the most extraordinary individuals in our world today. This is a conversation that will touch your heart, inspire your spirit, and challenge you to think deeply about how we can all contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world.

Loss and the Humanization of Tragedy
Nick Sasaki: Welcome back, everyone. Today, we delve into the profound topic of loss and the humanization of tragedy, drawing from the deeply personal experiences of Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish. Dr. Abuelaish, as you mentioned earlier, you tragically lost 25 members of your family on October 7. Could you share more about their lives and the impact of their loss?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: Thank you, Nick. The loss of 25 family members, including my brother, nieces, and other relatives, was a devastating blow. These were not just numbers—they were vibrant individuals with dreams and aspirations. My niece, a medical doctor, was on the brink of specializing. My nephew, a physiotherapist, was dedicated to helping others. Their lives were full of promise and potential. It's essential to recognize that behind every statistic in conflict zones are real people with hopes, dreams, and families. Humanizing their stories is crucial in understanding the true impact of such tragedies.
Nick Sasaki: Malala, hearing about the personal stories behind these losses, how does it resonate with your own experiences and the importance of recognizing the humanity in such tragedies?
Malala Yousafzai: Dr. Abuelaish, your story is heartbreaking and profoundly moving. It highlights the need to see beyond the numbers and recognize the individuals and their dreams. Each life lost is a world of potential gone. When we humanize these tragedies, we foster empathy and a deeper understanding of the urgent need for peace. It reminds us that every person affected by conflict is a human being with a story, a family, and dreams. This perspective is essential in advocating for justice and change.
Nick Sasaki: Desmond, your work in South Africa has shown the importance of truth and reconciliation. How can we apply these principles to the stories shared by Dr. Abuelaish?
Desmond Tutu: Dr. Abuelaish, your loss is a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict. In South Africa, we learned that acknowledging the pain and stories of those affected by injustice is the first step toward healing. Humanizing tragedy means giving voice to those who suffer and ensuring their stories are heard and remembered. This process is vital for reconciliation and for building a future based on understanding and respect. By sharing these personal stories, we foster empathy and pave the way for genuine peace and reconciliation.
Nick Sasaki: Mother Teresa, you have always emphasized the importance of compassion. How can we support individuals like Dr. Abuelaish and his community in their time of loss?
Mother Teresa: Dr. Abuelaish, your story of loss and your resilience in the face of such pain is deeply inspiring. Compassion begins with recognizing and honoring the humanity in each person. We must treat those who suffer with dignity and care, acknowledging their pain and supporting them through their grief. Small acts of kindness and a commitment to listening and understanding can make a significant difference. By standing with those who suffer and advocating for their rights, we can help heal the wounds of loss and build a more compassionate world.
Nick Sasaki: Elie, you’ve dedicated your life to ensuring that the horrors of the past are not forgotten. How can we honor the memories of those lost, like Dr. Abuelaish’s family, while working towards a future of peace?
Elie Wiesel: Dr. Abuelaish, your loss is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of conflict. Honoring the memories of those lost involves remembering their stories and ensuring that their lives are not forgotten. It also means committing to actions that prevent future tragedies. Education and memory are powerful tools in this endeavor. By teaching future generations about the human cost of conflict and the importance of empathy and human rights, we can work towards a more just and peaceful world. Your advocacy for peace is a vital part of this process.
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, you’ve spoken passionately about the need for equality and freedom for Palestinians. How can the international community support these goals and ensure that the rights of Palestinians are recognized and upheld?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: The international community must recognize and uphold the rights of Palestinians to live with dignity, freedom, and equality. This means addressing immediate humanitarian needs and supporting long-term solutions that promote justice and peace. We need to ensure that Palestinians have the same opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic development as others. It’s about recognizing our shared humanity and working together to create a future where everyone can live with dignity and freedom. Only through mutual respect and understanding can we achieve lasting peace.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for your compassionate and insightful contributions. Dr. Abuelaish, your story is a powerful call to action for recognizing the human faces behind tragedy and advocating for equality and peace. Let us all commit to honoring the memories of those lost by working towards a world where every life is valued and where peace and justice are achievable realities.
Equality and Human Rights
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, you have tragically lost many members of your family since October 7. Could you share more about their lives and the impact of their loss?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: Thank you, Nick. As I mentioned earlier, on October 7, I lost 25 members of my family. Among them were my brother, nieces, and other relatives. They were not just numbers; they were vibrant individuals with dreams and aspirations. My niece, a medical doctor, was supposed to specialize soon. My nephew was a physiotherapist. They were all striving to make a difference. Their loss is a stark reminder that each person lost in conflict had a name, a face, and a future. It’s vital to recognize their humanity and the value of their lives.
Nick Sasaki: Malala, as someone who has faced and overcome violence, what are your thoughts on the importance of recognizing the humanity and equality of all individuals in conflict zones?
Malala Yousafzai: Dr. Abuelaish, your story is heartbreaking, and it underscores the urgent need for equality and respect for human rights. Every life is precious, and the suffering of your family should be a call to action for the world. We must advocate for the equal value of all lives, regardless of nationality. Education plays a crucial role in this, as it fosters understanding and empathy. We must work tirelessly to ensure that everyone, especially in conflict zones, is treated with dignity and respect.
Nick Sasaki: Desmond, your work in South Africa has shown the power of reconciliation and truth. How can we apply these principles to the situation Dr. Abuelaish describes?
Desmond Tutu: Dr. Abuelaish, your loss is a profound tragedy, and your call for equality is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. In South Africa, we learned that acknowledging past injustices and fostering reconciliation were essential for healing. The same principles apply here. We must recognize the pain and suffering of all individuals, affirm their rights, and work towards a future where everyone can live in peace and dignity. This requires a commitment to justice and equality from the international community.
Nick Sasaki: Mother Teresa, your life was dedicated to serving the most vulnerable. How can we support individuals like Dr. Abuelaish and his community in their struggle for equality and human rights?
Mother Teresa: Dr. Abuelaish, your story of loss and hope calls us to act with compassion and love. We must see each person as a reflection of God’s love and treat them with the dignity they deserve. This means advocating for equal rights, ensuring access to basic needs like food, water, and healthcare, and providing opportunities for education. By standing together in solidarity, we can support those in need and work towards a world where every life is valued equally.
Nick Sasaki: Elie, you’ve dedicated your life to ensuring that the horrors of the past are not forgotten. How can we honor the memories of those lost, like Dr. Abuelaish’s family, while working towards a future of equality and peace?
Elie Wiesel: Dr. Abuelaish, your loss is a painful reminder of the cost of conflict. We must honor the memories of those lost by committing to a future where such tragedies do not happen. This involves educating future generations about the importance of human rights and equality. It also requires a collective effort to advocate for justice and to challenge the systems and ideologies that perpetuate violence and inequality. By doing so, we honor the lives lost and work towards a world where every person’s dignity is respected.
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, you’ve spoken passionately about the need for equality and freedom for Palestinians. How can the international community support these goals and ensure that the rights of Palestinians are recognized and upheld?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: The international community must take a stand for human rights and equality. This means not only addressing the immediate humanitarian needs but also supporting long-term solutions that promote justice and peace. We need to ensure that Palestinians have the same opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic development as others. It’s about recognizing our shared humanity and working together to create a future where everyone can live with dignity and freedom. Only through mutual respect and understanding can we achieve lasting peace.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for your compassionate and insightful contributions. Dr. Abuelaish, your story is a powerful call to action for equality and human rights. Let us all commit to advocating for a world where every life is valued, and where peace and justice are achievable realities.
The Role of Education and Medicine in Peacebuilding
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, could you elaborate on how education and your work in medicine have shaped your vision for peace?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: Thank you, Nick. Education and medicine have always been at the heart of my efforts for peace. Growing up as a refugee, education was my beacon of hope. It provided me with the tools to escape the cycle of poverty and violence. My work as a physician, especially in Gaza and Israel, showed me the power of medicine as a universal language of humanity. When I treat a patient, their nationality doesn’t matter—only their humanity. This belief drives my advocacy for peace through education and healthcare, as these fields have the power to unite and heal.
Nick Sasaki: Malala, your advocacy for girls' education has changed the lives of many. How do you see education as a tool for peace in the context of Dr. Abuelaish’s experiences?
Malala Yousafzai: Dr. Abuelaish, your story is a testament to the transformative power of education. Education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for peace. It empowers individuals, fosters understanding, and breaks down barriers of ignorance and prejudice. By investing in education, particularly for girls, we can build more inclusive and peaceful societies. Education provides the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to challenge injustice and advocate for human rights, which are essential for lasting peace.
Nick Sasaki: Desmond, you’ve seen how healthcare can play a role in reconciliation. How can the principles of medicine contribute to peacebuilding, as seen through Dr. Abuelaish’s work?
Desmond Tutu: Dr. Abuelaish, your work as a physician in a conflict zone exemplifies how healthcare can be a bridge to peace. Medicine is inherently compassionate and egalitarian. When healthcare professionals treat patients, they demonstrate that every life is valuable, fostering trust and understanding. In South Africa, we saw that healthcare workers who provided care to all, regardless of race, helped to break down barriers and build trust within divided communities. Your work shows that by promoting health and well-being, we also promote peace and reconciliation.
Nick Sasaki: Mother Teresa, your dedication to serving the most vulnerable is legendary. How can we apply your principles of compassion and care in supporting Dr. Abuelaish’s vision?
Mother Teresa: Dr. Abuelaish, your commitment to education and medicine as paths to peace is deeply inspiring. Compassion and care are at the heart of both these fields. By treating others with love and dignity, we can heal not just physical wounds, but also the emotional and psychological scars of conflict. In every act of kindness and every effort to educate, we contribute to a more peaceful and just world. Supporting your vision means fostering a culture of compassion where everyone’s well-being is prioritized.
Nick Sasaki: Elie, you’ve often emphasized the importance of education in preventing atrocities. How can Dr. Abuelaish’s experiences inform our efforts to use education and healthcare as tools for peace?
Elie Wiesel: Dr. Abuelaish, your journey highlights the critical role of education in fostering understanding and preventing violence. Education is the most powerful weapon we have to change the world. It teaches respect for human rights and the dignity of every person. Similarly, healthcare is a universal equalizer—it shows that our common humanity transcends divisions. Your experiences remind us that through education and compassionate healthcare, we can build bridges between communities, promote understanding, and work towards a more peaceful future.
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, your work with the Daughters for Life Foundation is a shining example of how education can transform lives. Could you share some success stories from the foundation and how they contribute to peace?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: Absolutely, Nick. The Daughters for Life Foundation provides scholarships to young women from the Middle East, empowering them to pursue higher education and become leaders in their communities. One of our graduates, Nada from Gaza, became a doctor and is now working in underserved communities. Another, Reem from Syria, pursued a degree in education and is teaching refugee children. These young women are not only changing their own lives but also contributing to peace and development in their communities. Their success stories demonstrate how education can break cycles of violence and foster a more peaceful and equitable world.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for your compassionate insights. Dr. Abuelaish, your dedication to using education and medicine as tools for peace is truly inspiring. Let us all strive to support and expand these efforts, recognizing that through education and compassionate care, we can build a more peaceful and just world.
Transforming Pain into Advocacy for Peace
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, as you mentioned earlier, you lost 25 members of your family on October 7. How have you turned this immense tragedy into a driving force for your peace advocacy?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: Thank you, Nick. Losing 25 members of my family, including my niece, brother, and other relatives, was an indescribable pain. Instead of letting anger and hatred consume me, I chose to channel my grief into advocating for peace. I founded the Daughters for Life Foundation to honor my daughters and other family members by providing educational opportunities for young women. Education is a powerful tool to break the cycle of violence and promote understanding. My work is driven by the belief that peace can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and the recognition of our shared humanity.
Nick Sasaki: Malala, you’ve faced violence and transformed it into a global movement for education and peace. How do you see the power of turning personal pain into advocacy, as Dr. Abuelaish has done?
Malala Yousafzai: Dr. Abuelaish, your strength and resilience are incredibly inspiring. Like you, I have faced violence and chosen to use my experience to advocate for change. Turning personal pain into a force for good is powerful because it shows that even in the face of adversity, we can choose a path of hope and transformation. Your work with the Daughters for Life Foundation is a testament to the idea that education can heal and empower. By focusing on education, you are giving young women the tools to build a more peaceful and just world.
Nick Sasaki: Desmond, you have seen how personal and collective pain can be transformed into a force for reconciliation and peace. How do you view Dr. Abuelaish’s journey in this context?
Desmond Tutu: Dr. Abuelaish, your ability to transform such profound loss into a mission for peace is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In South Africa, we faced immense suffering, but we learned that healing begins when we confront our pain and use it to fuel our commitment to justice and reconciliation. Your advocacy shows that even in the darkest times, there is a path forward through compassion, education, and dialogue. By focusing on these elements, you are contributing to a future where peace and understanding prevail.
Nick Sasaki: Mother Teresa, your work was centered around compassion and serving those in the greatest need. How can we apply your principles to support Dr. Abuelaish’s advocacy for peace?
Mother Teresa: Dr. Abuelaish, your dedication to transforming pain into a mission for peace and education is deeply moving. Compassion is at the heart of this transformation. By showing love and care for others, even in the face of immense personal suffering, we can create ripples of positive change. Supporting your advocacy means embracing compassion in our actions and ensuring that the most vulnerable are given the opportunities and respect they deserve. Your work reminds us that every act of kindness and every effort to educate can contribute to a more peaceful world.
Nick Sasaki: Elie, you’ve dedicated your life to bearing witness and advocating for human rights. How can Dr. Abuelaish’s experiences inform our efforts to turn pain into advocacy?
Elie Wiesel: Dr. Abuelaish, your journey of transforming personal tragedy into advocacy for peace is profoundly inspiring. Witnessing and sharing our stories is crucial for educating others and preventing future atrocities. Your work highlights the importance of education and the recognition of our shared humanity. By turning pain into a force for good, you remind us that we can choose hope and resilience over despair. Your advocacy teaches us that by educating and empowering others, we can create a future where human rights are respected, and peace is possible.
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, your foundation has already touched many lives. Can you share more about the impact it has had and how it continues to drive your mission for peace?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: The Daughters for Life Foundation has provided scholarships to many young women from the Middle East, empowering them to pursue higher education and become leaders. These young women are now contributing to their communities in meaningful ways, embodying the values of peace and understanding. Seeing their success reaffirms my belief in the power of education to transform lives and societies. Our foundation’s impact goes beyond individual achievements; it fosters a culture of hope, resilience, and mutual respect, which are essential for peace.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for your profound and compassionate insights. Dr. Abuelaish, your journey and your dedication to peace are incredibly inspiring. Let us all take these lessons to heart and commit to transforming our own pain into advocacy for a more peaceful and just world.
Vision for a Peaceful Future
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, given your profound personal losses and your work for peace, what is your vision for a peaceful future in the Middle East?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: Thank you, Nick. My vision for a peaceful future in the Middle East is one where justice, equality, and mutual respect are the foundations of our societies. I envision a region where Palestinians and Israelis can live side by side in harmony, with open borders and shared prosperity. Education and dialogue are crucial in achieving this vision. By investing in our youth and fostering understanding through education, we can break down the walls of hatred and build bridges of trust. It’s a long journey, but with commitment and hope, it’s possible.
Nick Sasaki: Malala, you’ve often spoken about the power of education. How do you see education playing a role in achieving global peace in the context of Dr. Abuelaish’s vision?
Malala Yousafzai: Dr. Abuelaish, your vision for a peaceful future is deeply inspiring. Education is indeed the cornerstone of a peaceful world. It empowers individuals, promotes understanding, and fosters empathy. When we educate our children, we give them the tools to think critically, to challenge injustice, and to advocate for their rights. For girls, education is particularly transformative, as it allows them to contribute to their communities and societies. My vision is a world where every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through education, we can cultivate a generation of leaders who will champion peace and justice.
Nick Sasaki: Desmond, your work in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was pivotal for South Africa. What practical steps can be taken globally to promote peace and reconciliation, drawing from Dr. Abuelaish’s vision?
Desmond Tutu: Dr. Abuelaish, your vision for peace is a beacon of hope for many. The first step towards peace is acknowledging the truth. We must confront our pasts honestly and openly. This includes listening to the stories of those who have suffered and understanding the impact of historical injustices. Reconciliation involves creating spaces where people can come together to share their experiences and heal. It’s also essential to implement policies that promote equality and justice. Education, healthcare, and economic opportunities should be accessible to all. Finally, we must nurture a culture of forgiveness and empathy, encouraging individuals to see each other’s humanity.
Nick Sasaki: Mother Teresa, your life was rooted in compassion and care for the most vulnerable. How can we foster a culture of compassion to build a peaceful future as envisioned by Dr. Abuelaish?
Mother Teresa: Dr. Abuelaish, your dedication to peace through compassion and understanding is deeply moving. Compassion begins with small acts of kindness. Each of us can make a difference by showing love and care to those around us. A culture of compassion is built when we prioritize the well-being of others and treat everyone with dignity. This extends to our policies and institutions, which should reflect our commitment to caring for the most vulnerable. By fostering a sense of community and mutual support, we create an environment where peace can flourish. Remember, peace starts within our own hearts and homes, and it radiates outward.
Nick Sasaki: Elie, you’ve often spoken about the importance of memory and education in preventing future atrocities. What is your vision for a peaceful future, and how can we work towards it in the spirit of Dr. Abuelaish’s vision?
Elie Wiesel: Dr. Abuelaish, your vision for a peaceful future is powerful and necessary. My vision for a peaceful future is one where human rights are universally respected, and where every individual is treated with dignity and respect. To achieve this, we must educate future generations about the horrors of the past, ensuring that they understand the importance of tolerance and empathy. Memory is a powerful tool for preventing future atrocities. By remembering the past, we honor those who suffered and commit to building a better world. It’s also crucial to advocate for policies that protect human rights and promote justice. Peace is built through constant vigilance and a collective commitment to doing what is right.
Nick Sasaki: Dr. Abuelaish, as we conclude, what message of hope would you like to share with those who aspire to contribute to a peaceful future?
Izzeldin Abuelaish: My message is simple: never lose hope. Even in the darkest times, hope is a powerful force that can drive us towards positive change. Believe in the power of education, dialogue, and compassion. Each of us has the ability to make a difference, no matter how small. By working together, supporting one another, and committing to justice and peace, we can build a better future for ourselves and for future generations. Let us honor the memory of those we’ve lost by dedicating ourselves to creating a world where peace and understanding prevail.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for your inspiring visions and insights. Dr. Abuelaish, your unwavering commitment to peace is truly remarkable. Let us carry these messages forward and strive to make the world a more peaceful and compassionate place.
Final Remarks
Nick Sasaki: As we conclude this profound and moving conversation, I want to thank Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish and our esteemed participants for sharing their experiences, wisdom, and compassionate visions for a peaceful future.
Through this dialogue, we've learned the immense power of turning personal pain into advocacy for peace. Dr. Abuelaish's story reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable loss, we have the choice to pursue forgiveness, education, and compassion as pathways to healing and reconciliation.
Malala Yousafzai highlighted the transformative role of education in fostering understanding and empowering future generations. Desmond Tutu emphasized the importance of truth and reconciliation in healing divided communities. Mother Teresa reminded us that peace begins with small acts of kindness and compassion. Elie Wiesel reinforced the crucial role of memory and education in preventing future atrocities and advocating for human rights.
Dr. Abuelaish’s vision for a peaceful Middle East, where Palestinians and Israelis live side by side in harmony, is a powerful testament to the potential of education, healthcare, and mutual respect to build bridges and break down walls of hatred.
The lessons we've learned are clear:
- Forgiveness and empathy are essential for peace.
- Education empowers individuals and fosters understanding.
- Healthcare can bridge divides and promote human dignity.
- Transforming pain into advocacy can drive positive change.
- A shared vision for peace requires truth, reconciliation, and justice.
Let us carry these lessons forward in our own lives and commit to making a difference in our communities. By choosing compassion over hatred, education over ignorance, and action over complacency, we can contribute to a more peaceful and understanding world.
Thank you all for your inspiring contributions. Dr. Abuelaish, your journey is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and the human spirit. Let us all strive to support and expand these efforts, recognizing that through education, dialogue, and compassionate care, we can build a more peaceful and just world.
Short Bios:
Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish: A Palestinian physician and peace advocate, Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish lost three daughters and a niece during the Gaza War in 2009. He turned his grief into advocacy, founding the Daughters for Life Foundation to provide educational opportunities for young women from the Middle East. His memoir, "I Shall Not Hate," highlights his commitment to peace and reconciliation.
Malala Yousafzai: Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist for girls' education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. After surviving a Taliban assassination attempt in 2012, she co-authored "I Am Malala" and founded the Malala Fund to advocate for education for girls globally. Malala continues to inspire millions with her advocacy for education and human rights.
Desmond Tutu: Archbishop Desmond Tutu is a South African social rights activist and retired Anglican bishop who played a key role in the fight against apartheid. He chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, promoting healing and forgiveness. Tutu's work earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, and he remains a global symbol of peace and justice.
Mother Teresa: Mother Teresa, also known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, was a Roman Catholic nun and missionary known for her charitable work with the poorest of the poor. She founded the Missionaries of Charity and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Her life was dedicated to compassion, serving those in need with love and dignity.
Elie Wiesel: Elie Wiesel was a Romanian-born Holocaust survivor, writer, and human rights activist. His memoir "Night" is one of the seminal works about the Holocaust. Wiesel dedicated his life to ensuring the atrocities of the Holocaust were never forgotten, advocating for peace and human rights worldwide. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1986.
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