Addressing the ceremony, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, head of the Vietnamese delegation to the UN, noted that the world today faces many complex and intertwined global challenges, geopolitical tensions and conflicts, causing division and hatred, and hindering stability and development.

The philosophy of Buddhism can contribute to enlightening and guiding humanity to overcome these difficulties and challenges, emphasized the ambassador, adding mutual respect, understanding and the spirit of sharing are not only the essence of Buddhism but also the basic principles of other religions.

Giang noted that Buddhist values ​​such as practicing mindfulness, compassion - joy and forgiveness, and caring for all people, will be positive factors in helping to build a world of justice, equality and sustainable development.

According to the diplomat, the 2024 United Nations Summit of the Future this September will be an opportunity for the international community to apply the profound values ​​of Buddhism to promote a comprehensive approach in efforts to solve global challenges.

Vietnam has three times hosted UN Day of Vesak, in 2008, 2014 and 2019.

The UN General Assembly approved a resolution in 1999, internationally recognizing the Day of Vesak to acknowledge contributions that Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made for over two and a half millennia and continues to make to the spirituality of humanity.

This event is commemorated annually at the UN headquarters in New York and other UN offices, in consultation with the relevant permanent missions. It is observed during the full moon of May.

The Buddhists celebrate three important events—the birth, full awakening, and the passing away—of the historical Buddha Siddhartha Gautama.

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