Our Bureau
New Delhi
The First Asian Buddhist Summit, held in New Delhi on November 5-6, 2024, reaffirmed India’s enduring commitment to its Buddhist heritage. Organized by the Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation, the summit attracted over 160 participants from 32 countries, including prominent scholars and monastic leaders. Themed “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia,” discussions emphasized Buddhism’s role in fostering peace and cultural diplomacy across the region.
Experts highlighted that Buddha’s teachings have historically united Asian cultures, providing a framework for resilience during crises. The summit culminated in the adoption of The Delhi Declaration, which outlines initiatives to strengthen connections among Asian nations through principles of Buddha Dhamma, sharing Buddhist art and heritage and encouraging Buddhist pilgrimage.
Notable speakers included Thich Thien Tam from Vietnam and Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayake Thero from Sri Lanka, who stressed the importance of spreading messages of non-violence and compassion amidst global turmoil. Khenpo Chimed from Nepal advocated for establishing educational institutions to pass on Buddhist wisdom to younger generations.
The summit also served as a platform for addressing contemporary challenges facing the Buddhist community, including the relevance of Buddhist literature and philosophy in today’s world. With a focus on art, architecture, and scientific research related to Buddhism, participants aimed to enhance mutual understanding among diverse cultures.
India’s hosting of this summit aligns with its Act East Policy, promoting inclusive spiritual development across Asia. By leveraging its historical ties to Buddhism, India seeks to position itself as a leader in cultural diplomacy, fostering goodwill and cooperation among nations.
As the summit concluded, participants expressed hope that the collective efforts would contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable future for all.
