Commemoration of the International Day of Vesak 2026

On 7 May 2026, the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the United Nations in Vienna, in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka and the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV), organized the Commemoration of the International Day of Vesak 2026 at the Vienna International Centre. The event was attended by Ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, and the UN officials. 

H.E. Ms. Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand, delivered the opening remarks. She highlighted the significance of Vesak, recalling the 1999 UNGA Resolution 54/115, which recognizes the International Day of Vesak. Furthermore, she introduced the Buddhist concept of "Kalayanamitra" (Noble Friendship) as a guiding principle for international relations. She stated that sustainable multilateral cooperation should be grounded in sincerity, goodwill, and wisdom to foster peace amidst today’s global challenges. During this event, Ms. Chhaya Kapilashrami, Deputy Director-General of the UNOV, cited the message from H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations on the occasion of the International Day of Vesak 2026.    

The programme also featured a special Dhamma Talk titled "Cultivating Inner Peace in a Turbulent World: The Art of Wise Compassion in Global Diplomacy" by the Most Venerable Phra Phrompacharayanmuni (Phra Ajahn Jayasāro), presented via a specially prepared video clip.  This was followed by a religious observance and mindfulness meditation session led by the Most Venerable Dr. Wijayarajapura Seelawansa Thero, Chief Incumbent of Dhamma-Zentrum Nyanaponika, Vienna.  These activities aimed to promote understanding of the universal values of Buddhism and encourage the pursuit of peace and wisdom in accordance with Buddhist principles.

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