First Asian Buddhist summit to be held in Delhi from November 5 to 6

The Government of India hosts the Asian Buddhist Summit to strengthen Asia through dialogue, heritage, and unity.

The Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), is holding the first Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) in the national capital.

The summit themed ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’ is a manifestation of India’s Act East Policy, which is principled on collective, inclusive and spiritual development of Asia, the Union Culture Ministry said in a statement.

To be held on November 5-6, the summit will be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. It will bring together Buddhist ‘Sangha’ leaders, scholars, experts and practitioners from various traditions across Asia to foster dialogue, promote understanding and address contemporary challenges faced by the Buddhist community.

“Buddhism holds a unique position in the spiritual and cultural history of India and pan Asia. The teachings of the Buddha, His disciples and preachers have kept Asia united through a common outlook towards life, divinity, and social values.”

“The Buddha Dhamma has emerged as a valuable component of India’s culture, aiding the country in developing steadfast foreign policy and effective diplomatic ties. From the incorporation of Buddhist symbols as part of independent India’s national identity to the adoption of Buddhist values in its foreign policy, Buddha Dhamma, India and Asia are complimentary to each other,” the Culture Ministry statement said.

“The summit marks a unique opportunity in bringing together diverse voices of Buddha’s Dhamma across Asia. Through dialogue, addressing contemporary challenges, and promoting Buddhist heritage, the summit aims to contribute to a more compassionate, sustainable, and peaceful world that gives us a complete assurance of the comprehensive welfare of humanity,” it added.

Themes covered by the summit will include Buddhist art, architecture and heritage, Buddha Cārikā and dissemination of Buddha dhamma, role of holy Buddhist relics and their relevance in society, significance of Buddha dhamma in scientific research and well-being and role of Buddhist literature and philosophy in 21st Century.