Director-General's remarks on the occasion of the International Day of Vesak

International Day of Vesak
Wednesday, 14 May 2025 at 2.00 p.m.
Room XXVI, Palais des Nations
 

Ambassador Arunatilaka [Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka],
Ambassador Berananda [Permanent Representative of Thailand],
Excellencies,  
Ladies and Gentlemen: 

Happy Vesak Day! It is my great pleasure to join you today on this joyful and meaningful occasion.

I extend my sincere gratitude to the Permanent Missions of Sri Lanka and Thailand for organizing today’s celebration at the Palais des Nations.

Twenty-six years ago, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted Resolution 54/115, recognizing internationally the Day of Vesak. This resolution acknowledged the profound contributions Buddhism has made — and continues to make — to the spiritual fabric of humanity. This collective recognition underscores the universal and enduring nature of the Buddha’s teachings, which emphasize kindness, compassion, and selflessness as fundamental human virtues.

The Buddha taught that enlightenment requires the development of two essential qualities: wisdom and compassion. He also emphasized that nothing exists in isolation — all phenomena are interconnected. Just as profoundly, he reminded us that true happiness remains elusive when others suffer. Alternatively, when we extend a helping hand, we uncover the best within ourselves. This spirit of caring not just for ourselves, but for others —grounded in an awareness of our shared destinies — lies at the heart of Buddhism.

Buddhist philosophy aligns closely with the global vision and mission of the United Nations. The UN Charter embodies many of the Buddha's principles of life, such as tolerance, solidarity, non-violence and the principle of unity in diversity. 

Today, the Buddha’s teachings are more relevant than ever, offering a powerful source of hope. Rooted in compassion and self-awareness, his timeless message serves not only as a pathway for personal transformation but also as a call to collective action. It reminds us that humanitarian aid begins with empathy, that equitable sharing of resources requires generosity, and that multilateral cooperation thrives on mutual understanding. In this way, the Buddha’s wisdom can guide our efforts to build bridges across cultures and faiths, foster inclusive dialogue, and promote a more peaceful and unified global community.

As we celebrate the International Day of Vesak, we must also remember that mindfulness is a cornerstone of Buddhist philosophy. The practice of living in the “Here and Now” teaches us that conscious awareness of the present moment is key to learning from past experiences and preparing for future challenges.

So, in this very moment, let us renew our commitment to solidarity, working together to ensure a world of peace and dignity for all.

Thank you.