Buddhist Summit reinforces role of Buddhism in strengthening Asia
By IAR Desk
The First Asian Buddhist Summit, organized by the Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation commenced on 5 November 2024 in New Delhi. The Summit themed Role of Buddha Dhamma in strengthening Asia saw participation from members of the Mahasangha, heads of monastic traditions, monks, nuns, members of the diplomatic community and Professors of Buddhist studies and scholars.
The Chief Guest President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, today said that when the world is facing existential crisis on many fronts, Buddha Dhamma has a lot to offer to humankind. “Dhamma teaches us how to live in peace, happiness and harmony with compassion, love and equanimity,” she reiterated.
Referring to the recognition of Pali by the Indian government, the President mentioned that Buddha’s teachings were preserved in Pali and with the recognition of the language it will significantly revitalize Buddha’s teachings and the literature.
Questioning the narrow sectarian outlook, greed and hatred all around, the President said “one word stands out, ‘Karuna; Compassion’ this is what the world needs today! Buddha Dhamma is needed to strengthen Asia. We need strong associations based on Buddha’s teaching for a safe and secure world. It can show the way to usher in real peace in the world,” she said.
However, collective action is needed for promoting sustainable peace worldwide. This alone can ensure enduring relevance of Dhamma for future generations. “May this Summit contribute to global peace and harmony,” she said in conclusion.
The President Smt. Droupadi Murmu, launched the new logo for the Asian Buddhist Summit on this occasion.
Leaders of the Mahasangha, HH the Dalai Lama and heads of the monastic traditions from several countries sent blessings and good wishes to the Conclave mentioning that they were supporting the initiative.
A Special Address on “Recognition of Pali as a Classical Indian Language” was delivered by Most Venerable Sitagu Sayadaw from Myanmar.
Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Mr Kiren Rijiju in the opening address noted that the Conclave was a reflection of the close bonds that exist between the Buddhist countries.
Looking at the large overseas participation at the Conclave, an interesting historical twist he noted, saying that in olden days Buddhism spread from India through Dhamma doots of Ashoka. Today, we are glad to see you all as Dhamma dootas return to India.
He said that Asian Buddhism is deeply interwoven with fundamentals of Asian values that have shaped societies for millennia. “We are living in very interesting and challenging moments of history,” he added.
Quoting the Prime Minister’s first address as the PM during Buddha Jayanti celebrations in 2024, he said, the PM had said that any nation that aspires to become a global power must follow the path of Buddha.
It is a probe moment for us that the 2600 yr old message of Buddha is being spread by India today.
Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat noted that India reaffirmed its deep-rooted connections to the Asian Nation by strengthening the Dhamma- Setu through this Conclave, which reinforces a common Buddhist heritage between all Asian nations.
“We are all gathered on this sacred land of Bharat where Tathagata attained enlightenment. Today we stand as inheritors of the Buddha’s legacy, strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting the common heritage amongst us” he concluded.
