News Today: Sri Lankan President attends UN Vesak Day in Vietnam

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is participating in the 20th United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as the Chief Guest. This momentous event, held from May 6th to 8th, marks a significant diplomatic engagement as the President continues his state visit at the invitation of Vietnamese President Luong Cuong.

The theme of this year’s UN Vesak Day is “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development”. President Dissanayake will deliver the keynote address during the inauguration, scheduled for 7:40 am local time. For audiences in Sri Lanka, the speech will be broadcast live on television at 5:00 pm, following the Local Government Elections.

This global celebration of Vesak brings together more than 2,800 participants, including high-level delegates from Buddhist-majority nations such as Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Laos, and Cambodia. In addition, delegates from 85 countries and territories are attending the event, highlighting the global significance of Buddhist teachings in promoting peace, sustainability, and cross-cultural understanding.

The Sri Lankan President’s participation not only symbolizes the country’s deep Buddhist roots but also strengthens diplomatic relations with Vietnam and the international Buddhist community. His involvement further underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering unity and peace across borders—a message deeply embedded in Buddhist philosophy.