Melania Trump says she 'harnessed the power of love' during 'challenging times'
Melania Trump has said that throughout her life, she has "harnessed the power of love as a source of strength during challenging times".
"Love has inspired me to embrace, forgiveness, nurture empathy and exhibit bravery in the face of unforeseen obstacles," the US first lady continued.
The remarks came as a part of her address at the 19th annual International Women of Courage Award ceremony.
Watch the video above.
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Melania joined Secretary of State Marco Rubio to honour eight women from across the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength and leadership – often at great personal risk and sacrifice.
"Today we celebrate courage, a strength that is based in love," Melania continued.
"This truth is illustrated through our honorees who proved that love can inspire extraordinary valour even in the face of vulnerability".
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"The remarkable stories, a testament to the power of love in practice for family, community and our world.
"This is especially evident in places where their passion defies convention and where it has been shown at great personal risk of stigma, persecution or harm."
Melania continued to share that the ceremony's "recipients came from diverse backgrounds and regions, yet love transcends boundaries and territories."
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"It is a universal language. Their courage propels us of humanity forward by advocating to end violence against women and girls, promoting democratic governance, defending human rights, championing education and fighting injustice".
"Let their stories motivate us to take courageous steps, knowing that each act of love can spark a ripple of transformation," Melania concluded her speech.
Melania's public address at the annual award ceremony was her second since US President Donald Trump's inauguration in January.
The president of the United States was not present at the event.
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Melania's remarks about harnessing love through "challenging times" come after she stood by Donald during his criminal trials last year.
While she was not physically present at the court proceedings, Melania appears to have remained a steadfast supporter of her husband.
Last may Donald was found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in his hush money trial in New York last May making him the first US president with a criminal conviction.
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In January, Donald was sentenced to an "unconditional discharge", sparing him of any jail time, fines or probation.
Donald revealed last June that the trial and criminal conviction had been "very hard" for Melania.
"She's fine, but I think it's very hard for her," he said of his wife in an interview with Fox News, per the BBC.
"In many ways, it's tougher on them [his family] than it is me," he added.
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