CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE
For UN Vesak Day 2019
On behalf of the Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, I have the honour to extend our heartiest congratulations and warm wishes to the Government of Viet Nam and National Vietnam Buddhist Sangha for successful celebration of the 16th United Nations Day of Vesak and Academic Conference in Viet Nam in 2019. It is heartening to learn that this is the third time hosting the Vesak Celebration in Viet Nam.
I strongly believe that the theme chosen for this year celebration “Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies” is very pertinent and not only reflects the need for a clear vision and collective efforts to effectively tackle the domestic and global challenges but also exhibits the true essence of Buddha’s teaching, perspectives and concepts. A leader should have a vision and a mission. It is the clear vision that will guide us to a better future by defining what one wants to become or achieve as a goal. Buddha’s vision was very clearly stated from the time he was just a Bodhi- aspirant.
Vesak day is a day where Buddhists and followers come together to celebrate the birth, enlightenment and final nirvana of Gautama Buddha. It is also a good opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the contribution of Buddhist thoughts to our culture and society. May I invite Buddhists and people of all traditions to use the occasion of the Day of Vesak to re-evaluate on our past actions and to ponder ourselves how to change our actions in paving ways for a more harmonious and sustainable future for humanity.
In Myanmar, more than 80 percent of the population subscribes to Buddhism. Buddhists in Myanmar have been living with the essences of Buddha’s teachings by practicing loving kindness,
30 BOOK OF MESSAGES: UNITED NATIONS DAY OF VESAK 2019
compassion, sympathetic joy and forbearance. They also respect and socialize with followers of other religions with a view of humanitarianism. I strongly believe in the fact that the enhanced cooperation amongst Buddhists can significantly contributes in building peaceful, harmonious and sustainable societies all over the world.
May this year witness a further deepening of ties between Buddhists and followers of different faiths and continued collaboration to promote peace, harmony and prosperity for all humankind.
May you all have a memorable and spiritually rejuvenating Vesak Day.
Ambassador of Myanmar
H.E. Kyaw Soe Win