The event was co-organized by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) in collaboration with the IOC for UN of Vesak  and attended by Most Venerable Deputy Patriarch of the VBS Thích Trí Quảng, Most Venerable President of the VBS Executive Council Thích Thiện Nhơn,  Most Venerable Chairman of the IOC Dr. Phra Brahmapundit, and members of the IOC from the countries of India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, China, Japan, US, France, Norway, South Korea, Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia.

Vice Chairman of the GCRA Trần Tấn Hùng speaks at the meeting

Speaking at the meeting, Vice Chairman Trần Tấn Hùng affirmed that as a member of the United Nations Vietnam always supports and actively participates in activities within the framework of the UN. Respecting the freedom of religion and belief, the Vietnam Government will create favorable conditions for the VBS to successfully organize this event, he added.

As announced at press conference after the first session of the preparatory meeting, the UN Day of Vesak 2019 will take place on May 12-14, 2019 in Tam Chuc pagoda located in the northern province of Ha Nam with the main theme “Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibility for Sustainable Society”.

The event is expected to attract around 10,000 domestic and foreign delegates and Buddhist followers, including 1,500 Buddhist dignitaries and scholars from 100 countries and territories worldwide.

The two-day event discussed contents for the main theme of the UN Day of Vesak 2019 and five sub-themes, namely mindful leadership for sustainable peace, Buddhist approach to harmonious family, healthcare and sustainable society, Buddhist approach to global moral education, the fourth industrial revolution, and Buddhism and Buddhist approach to responsible consumption and sustainable development.

Most Venerable Thích Thiện Nhơn speaks at the meeting

PH