(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – Following is message from UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay on the occasion of Vesak Day:
“I am pleased to be celebrating Vesak Day, together with the Permanent Delegation of Sri Lanka.
“On this special day – the day of the full moon in the month of May – we commemorate the Birth, Enlightenment and Parinibbana of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. We also reflect on his teachings, the Dharma, one of the “three jewels of Buddhism”.
“I would like to greet all the communities around the world that celebrate his message of peace and spirituality, keeping alive the flame of a multi-millennial tradition.
“Indeed, for more than 25 centuries, Buddhism has transmitted a message that is still of great relevance today. A message of wisdom, compassion, mutual understanding. A message of solidarity and humility, of generosity and charity. A way of life that encourages better relationships with others, as well as with nature. “This message is a universal one, which speaks to everyone around the world. That is why the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized the Day of Vesak in 1999, as well as Buddhism’s contribution to the cultural heritage of all humanity.
“The values celebrated on this Day also underpin UNESCO’s mandate. To build, in the minds of women and men, a true intellectual and moral solidarity, a culture of peace, against all forms of racism and discrimination. To protect cultural diversity, by showing that what brings us together is stronger than what divides us. To promote an education that can help us to make peace with nature as well as among ourselves.
“It is therefore with great pleasure that UNESCO is hosting this symposium on Vesak Day – and I thank the Government of Sri Lanka for bringing us together to enjoy this moment of reflection and celebration.
“I wish you fruitful discussions.
“I wish you all a very happy Vesak Day.”
