National
PM for promoting Lumbini as Birthplace of Buddha
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said his government is committed to promoting Lumbini as the birthplace of Lord Buddha.Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said his government is committed to promoting Lumbini as the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Speaking at the International Buddhist Conference in the Capital on the eve of 2,560th birth anniversary of Buddha on Thursday, Oli said the conference is important to Nepal because it connects Lumbini with Buddha and the origin of Buddhism.
The prime minister also expressed belief that the conference will “contribute in enriching our understanding about the indispensable link between Lumbini and Buddhism”.
“Lord Buddha is an embodiment of our quest for truth and peace. For us, he is not just the light of Asia, he is the light of the whole world,” Oli said.
Speaking about Lumbini and its importance with reference to Buddhism, the prime minister said the birth of Prince Siddhartha in Lumbini who would go on to become the enlightened one has shaped the values and identity of Nepali people.
Prime Minister Oli also revealed the plan to promote and develop Lumbini as the Centre of International Buddhist Studies on the occasion.
“Lumbini needs more promotion as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the origin of Buddhism and as a site of world peace. At the same time, there is also a need of encouraging researches and scholarly engagements about the sacred place.”
Full Text of PM Oli's Speech