Global Leaders Gather at UN Vesak 2025 to Promote Buddhist Values for Peace
The Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City has become a focal point for global spiritual unity as it hosts the second day of the United Nations Vesak 2025 celebrations. Leaders from 85 countries gathered to discuss the theme of this year’s event: โSolidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development.โ The event highlighted the transformative power of Buddhist principles in addressing contemporary societal challenges.
Global Leaders Emphasize Buddhist Principles
During the celebrations, Shri Ramdas Athawale, India’s Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, spoke about the significant impact of Buddhist teachings on promoting justice, equality, and compassion in today’s world. His remarks resonated with many attendees, who believe that these principles can guide societies toward greater harmony. The event featured speakers from various continents, each underscoring the relevance of Buddhist wisdom in tackling urgent global issues. Topics discussed included the role of Buddhist education, environmental advocacy, mental health, and the importance of nurturing the younger generation to carry forward the teachings of Buddhism.
The program included messages from leaders of international Buddhist organizations, who elaborated on the central theme of the celebrations. Their speeches emphasized the need for solidarity and cooperation among Buddhist communities worldwide. The gathering served as a platform for sharing insights and strategies to address pressing challenges, reinforcing the idea that Buddhist teachings can contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable future.
Prayer Ceremony and Plenary Sessions
The event commenced with a prayer chanting ceremony performed by Vajrayana Buddhist monks from India. This ceremony held deep spiritual significance, symbolizing harmony and respect among various Buddhist traditions. Following the prayer service, a plenary session featured speeches from leaders and government representatives from numerous countries. These leaders acknowledged the vital role of Buddhist thought in fostering compassionate societies and addressing global challenges such as war, poverty, and climate change.
Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, Deputy Supreme Patriarch and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, attended the event alongside other prominent figures from the Buddhist community. Their presence underscored the importance of the Vesak celebrations in promoting dialogue and understanding among different cultures and traditions.
Messages of Hope and Action
Various speakers delivered messages that highlighted the importance of global cooperation among Buddhist traditions. Venerable Jeong Beom, Acting Chairman of the Overseas Affairs Headquarters in Korea, emphasized the need for solidarity. Associate Prof. Karsai Gรกbor Zsolt from Hungary spoke about the role of Buddhist education in modern society, while Guerrero Diaรฑez, President of the Spanish Buddhist Association, expressed hope for the younger generation to carry forward the teachings of Buddhism in the West.
Other notable messages included calls for environmental action from Gerhard Weissgrab, President of the Austrian Buddhist Union, and an emphasis on the healing power of Buddhism for community mental health from Ricardo Vieira Sasaki, Director of the Nฤlandฤ Buddhist Studies Center in Brazil. These contributions reflect a collective commitment to using Buddhist teachings as a foundation for addressing contemporary issues and fostering a more compassionate world.
The Vesak 2025 celebrations continue to serve as a vital platform for promoting Buddhist values and encouraging collaboration among diverse communities. As the event progresses, it aims to inspire individuals and organizations to work together for a peaceful and sustainable future.
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