Miscellaneous
Buddhist meets ends with Lumbini Declaration
A two-day International Buddhist Conference concluded on Sunday, issuing a 10-point Lumbini declaration.The conference held in Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, stressed implementation of the Lumbini Development Master Plan designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange in 1978. The conference also agreed to promote Lumbini as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and the origin of Buddhism and world peace.A two-day International Buddhist Conference concluded on Sunday, issuing a 10-point Lumbini declaration.The conference held in Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, stressed implementation of the Lumbini Development Master Plan designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange in 1978. The conference also agreed to promote Lumbini as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and the origin of Buddhism and world peace.
Addressing the closing ceremony on Sunday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli underscored the need to make Lumbini the centre of goodwill and world peace by publicising its sacredness across the globe. “Buddha’s teachings have been essential within the country and the world over,” said Oli, pledging to complete the master plan soon.
PM Oli urged all to work together to establish Lumbini as a famous pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. He emphasised the need for integrated development of Lumbini, Kapilvastu, Ramgram and Devdaha, places linked to the Buddha.
Preparations have been over to celebrate the 2562nd Buddha Jayanti, said Lumbini Development Trust Vice-chairman Venerable Metteyya Sakyaputta. “We are eager to send a message of peace to the world through this festival,” he added. A ceremony on Monday will be attended by President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Thousands of domestic and foreign tourists have converged in Lumbini for the celebration.