President stresses need to share values of Theravada Buddhism with the world

President Maithripala Sirisena said he was determined to share the values of Theravada Buddhism with the world while protecting Buddhist philosophy by joining hands with other Buddhist countries in the region.

He made these remarks while addressing a ceremony held at the Sri Chandananda Buddhist Vidyalaya, Asgiriya, yesterday to felicitate Venerable Dr. Godagama Mangala Nayaka Thera who was honoured with the Dhamma Chakka Royal Award from the Government of Thailand.

This Royal Award was presented to Venerable Dr. Godagama Mangala Nayaka Thera by the Government of Thailand in recognition of his great service towards the Buddha Sasana and also for the contribution made by the thera to propagate Theravada Buddhism at an international level.

President Sirisena speaking further said that this award was a honour bestowed not only on Venerable Dr. Godagama Mangala Nayaka Thera but the country as well.

The President appreciated the great service to the world by the Nayaka Thera as a disciplined and erudite monk.

The President presented the Dhamma Chakka Royal Award from the Government of Thailand to Venerable Dr. Godagama

This Royal Award was presented to Venerable Dr. Godagama Mangala Nayaka Thera by the Government of Thailand in recognition of his great service towards the Buddha Sasana

Mangala Thera. Members of the Maha Sangha including the Mahanayake of the Asgiriya Chapter Most Ven. Warakagoda Gnanarathana Thera, Anunayake Theras of the Malwatte Chapter Ven. Dibulkumbure Wimaladhamma Thera, Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Thera, Most Ven. Wedaruwe Upali Anunayake Thera, Ven. Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Nayaka Thera, Ven. Dr. Medagama Sri Dhammananda Nayaka Thera, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Minister Lakshman Kiriella, former Minister S.B. Dissanayaka and Thai Ambassador in Sri Lanka Chulamanee Chartsuwan were also present at the occasion.