Peace Conference at UNESCO Headquarters
By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Paris, 11 Nov: In a historic gathering, the International Peace Conference, organised by the World Fellowship of Buddhists in association with UNESCO peace chairs, was held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 28-29 October, bringing together spiritual leaders, scholars, and global advocates for peace. This landmark event underscored the enduring power of Buddhist teachings to address the modern-day challenges of global harmony through compassion, understanding, and unity.
A keynote address was delivered by Dr MK Otani, Chairman of the World Theravada Buddhist Centre in Dehradun and expert advisor to the Government of India, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with fellow peace advocates, Bhikshu Sangha members, and distinguished lay devotees. Dr Otani’s speech resonated with the universal values embodied in Buddhism, noting how the teachings of Tathagata Buddha, originating in India, continue to transcend cultural boundaries and offer a path to harmony among nations.
In a highlight of his speech, Dr Otani praised India’s recent recognition of Pali as a classical language, an effort spearheaded by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasised that this act goes beyond mere preservation of language; it represents India’s profound respect for its spiritual heritage and reinforces the nation’s role as a leader in the promotion of peace and cultural understanding. By elevating Pali—a language deeply rooted in Buddhist scriptures and teachings—to classical status, India honours the historical and spiritual significance of Buddhism, creating a bridge of shared wisdom and respect among countries influenced by this tradition.
Dr Otani acknowledged that this decision safeguards a crucial linguistic heritage, facilitating greater access to the teachings of Buddha in their original form and inspiring future generations to study and appreciate Buddhist principles of compassion and non-violence.
Dr Otani extended heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Modi for his visionary leadership, noting that under his guidance, India has taken strides to bring the transformative message of Buddhism to the global stage. He commended Prime Minister Modi’s deep commitment to fostering peace and mutual respect across nations, a dedication evident not only in his promotion of Buddhist values but also in his broader efforts to build bridges across cultural and spiritual divides. Dr Otani shared his confidence that, with initiatives like the classical status for Pali, Prime Minister Modi is helping to ensure that the timeless wisdom of Buddha continues to inspire and guide people worldwide.
The conference celebrated the collective efforts of Buddhist leaders and delegates from diverse traditions, all united in advocating for peace, compassion, and a harmonious world. This prestigious gathering at UNESCO stands as a testament to the relevance of Buddhist teachings in today’s world and to the leadership of India in promoting these values globally. Through this milestone event, the enduring legacy of Buddhism as a force for global peace and unity has been strengthened, echoing a universal call for a world enriched by compassion and mutual respect.
