UN says Buddha's message embedded in UN charter
The United Nations has issued statements to mark Vesak recalling that the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution recognising an international Day for Vesak following a motion spearheaded by Sri Lanka's former Foreign Minister, the late Lakshman Kadirgamar.
The UN Resident Coordinator Christian
Skoog issuing a message said Lord Buddha's lessons of equality, compassion, empathy, and kindness are core morals for all of humanity to aspire to and these same morals are embedded in the charter of the United Nations.
The full message said :
The United Nations General Assembly, by its resolution 54/115 of 1999, recognised internationally the Day of Vesak to acknowledge the contribution of Buddhism to the world. The resolution was the result of a motion spearheaded by a distinguished Sri Lankan, former Foreign Minister, the late Lakshman Kadirgamar.
One of the oldest religions in the world, Buddhism has for two and a half millennia made significant contributions to the spirituality of humanity.
As we honour the birth, enlightenment and passing of Lord Buddha, we can all be inspired by His teachings.
The Buddha's lessons of equality, compassion, empathy, and kindness are core morals for all of humanity to aspire to. These same morals are embedded in the charter of the United Nations.
The United Nations in Sri Lanka joins me in wishing all Sri Lankans celebrating this day, a Peaceful Vesak.
And in the words of the Secretary-General; "let us seize the spirit of Vesak [by reaching out] to bridge differences, rise above narrow selfinterest, and work together for a more peaceful world for all"."
The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, also issued a message to mark the Vesak celebrations.
The message said:I send my warmest wishes to the millions around the world celebrating the Day of Vesak, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.
The ideals celebrated on this sacred day have a deep resonance with the goals of our United Nations: understanding among peoples, the pursuit of harmony, the promotion of peace.
At this time of strife, the Buddha’s teachings of tolerance, compassion, and service to humanity are a source of solace and strength.
As we navigate the path to a better future, let us seize the spirit of Vesak.
Let us reach out to bridge differences, rise above narrow self-interest, and work together in solidarity for a more peaceful world for all.