On 18 May 2023, the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the United Nations and the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations co-hosted the commemoration of the International Day of Vesak at the Trusteeship Council Chamber, UN Headquarter.

In his welcoming remarks, H.E. Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations, highlighted that, as we continue to face global multiple crises, Lord Buddha’s Dhamma can be helpful, stressing the need for balance amongst human beings, society and nature, as well as interconnectedness and interdependence. He further stressed that the path of moderation or “the Noble Eightfold Path” in Buddhism can complement the practice of sustainable development, aiming at creating social solidarity and equality, and ensuring harmony with nature.

H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, emphasized, through a video message, the key teachings of Lord Buddha. Underscoring empathy, compromise, and respect, he stressed that inclusive peace, prosperity and security is based on the balance of all things to find the middle path to foster cooperation and human interconnectedness. He also highlighted (1) Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP), advocated by His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, which is based on the concept of Lord Buddha’s Middle Path, emphasizing the principle of moderation, reasonableness, and self-immunity, serving as the ground for inclusive, balanced, and sustainable development; (2) The recently adopted Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model which focuses on responsible production and moderate consumption. He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to achieve Sustainable Development Goals with “SEP or SDG Partnership” via the BCG economic model.

The commemoration also featured remarks by Mr. Csaba Kőrösi, President of the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, who attended in-person, video messages from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka and H.E. Mr. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, blessings and sermon by venerable monks from Thailand and Sri Lanka, and statements by representatives of many member states to the United Nations. Also attended the commemoration are venerable monks from different Buddhist communities from several countries around the world.

Please click on the links to access the Full record of the Commemoration and Opening Remarks.