LookAtVietnam Bridge – World leaders and religious dignitaries have described the United Nations Day of Vesak 2008 as an opportunity for international Buddhist leaders to gather and seek solutions to urgent global issues.

Their messages sent to the celebrations, which officially began in Hanoi on May 14, emphasised Buddhism as the religion of peace and merciful ness.

President of the World Buddhist Summit Most Venerable Dr. Kyuse Enshinjoh said the UN Day of Vesak is a chance for the Buddhist dignitaries, representing 370 million Buddhist followers worldwide, to seek solutions for issues such as war, conflict, social injustice and environmental pollution.

The Bangladeshi President expressed his hope that the celebrations be a driving force for efforts to promote peace, prosperity and fight class, skin colour, race and belief discrimination.

The Sri Lankan Prime Minister wrote in his message that the Vietnamese people have suffered pains and experienced a glorious victory. He said he hoped Sri Lankans could overcome their own troubles in a similar manner.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said the theme of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations – “Buddhism’s contributions to building an equitable, democratic and civilised society”– showed Buddhists’ desire for peace and harmony.

Praising the content to be discussed at the celebrations, Cardinal Giovanni Lajolo from Vatican II called for cooperation between Buddhists and Catholics in their goal for peace in the world.

The UN Day of Vesak, which runs in Hanoi until May 17, also received greeting messages from the United Nations, UNESCO and various international Buddhist organisations.

The celebrations mark Lord Buddha’s birthday, his Enlightenment and his entry into Nirvana.

(Source: VNA)