Lumbini: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has emphasized the importance of Buddha’s teachings in addressing the rising global unrest and violence. Addressing the 2569th Buddha Jayanti and Lumbini Day-2082 Main Ceremony at Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini, PM Oli stated that the teachings of Buddha hold timeless significance for ensuring peace worldwide. He advocated for the adoption of Buddha’s wisdom as a means to halt the growing conflicts, rather than relying on weaponry.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Prime Minister Oli praised both India and Pakistan for showing restraint in their recent conflict, following appeals from the international community, including Nepal. This mutual restraint helped avert war and mitigate potential damages. PM Oli acknowledged that tensions had emerged between the neighboring countries but noted their commitment to avoiding conflict, underscoring the necessity of Buddha’s message of peace.
He highlighted the ongoing production and accumulation of arms as a severe threat to human existence, urging a collective stand for global peace to eliminate such perils. He expressed gratitude to those who have contributed to the development of Buddha’s birthplace and acknowledged Professor Kenzo Tange’s significant role in crafting the Lumbini master plan. PM Oli emphasized the government’s focus on completing the master plan promptly.
PM Oli stressed the global spread of Buddha’s teachings, advocating for the values of peace, humanity, and compassion as essential for human existence and Earth’s protection. He reiterated the core principles of Buddha’s teachings-peace, humanism, and compassion-and the importance of internalizing these ideals.
He also mentioned the establishment of a Buddhist university dedicated to promoting Buddha’s teachings and philosophies through research and inquiry. Appreciating the efforts of Buddha’s disciples, he recognized their role in advancing values like peace, love, and compassion. PM Oli also acknowledged Bhikkhu Ananda’s contributions to documenting and propagating Buddha’s teachings, with historical records preserved in the Patna Museum, India.
Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, and LDT Chair, Badri Prasad Pandey, stated that efforts are underway to enhance the meditation center’s sound system in Lumbini. The government is committed to finalizing the Lumbini Master Plan and advancing Lumbini’s development, including prioritizing the operations of Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara International Airport.
Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Chet Narayan Acharya, highlighted the growing significance of Buddhist philosophy and the need to extend Buddha’s teachings globally. LDT Vice Chair Dr. Lharkyal Lama emphasized promoting Buddha’s teachings internationally to combat violence and war.
India’s ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, noted the historic, archaeological, and cultural ties between Nepal and India, dating back to Gautam Buddha.