First Asian Buddhist Summit has reaffirmed India’s commitment to Buddhist legacy: experts

Experts discuss the impact of Buddha's teachings on Asian nations and cultures at the first Asian Buddhist Summit.

Buddha’s teachings were the binding force not only in philosophical terms but also in practice and they have helped to sustain Asian nations and cultures in times of crisis, Buddhist scholars and experts said at the first Asian Buddhist Summit here.

The experts noted that the Summit has reaffirmed India’s commitment to the Buddhist legacy that was rooted in the region for millennia and one that continues to shape cultural diplomacy and spiritual understanding across Asia.

The summit, organised by the Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), themed ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’ saw participation from 32 countries with over 160 international participants. Members of the ‘Mahasangha’, patriarchs of various monastic traditions, monks, nuns, members of the diplomatic community, professors of Buddhist studies, experts and scholars, along with around 700 participants, engaged enthusiastically on the topic.

The summit also adopted ‘The Delhi Declaration’ at the conclusion of the event.

Strengthening bonds between Asian countries based on the principles of Buddha Dhamma, working upon Buddhist literature, especially Pali, and fostering and sharing the historical journey of Buddhist art and heritage (including architecture) were some of the steps mentioned in the declaration.

The declaration also resolved to connect Asian Buddhist Circuit through Buddhist Pilgrimage and Living Heritage and recognise the relevance of scientific and medical aspects of Buddha Dhamma (religion).

Thich Thien Tam, Vice President, ‘National Vietnam Buddhist Sangha’ from Vietnam said the summit had reaffirmed India’s commitment to the Buddhist legacy that was rooted here for millennia and one that continues to shape cultural diplomacy and spiritual understanding across Asia.