Buddha’s Teachings of Peace, Compassion

News Desk

United Nations: Pakistan has urged the international community to draw on Gautam Buddha’s teachings of peace, compassion, empathy and non-violence to address growing challenges and divisions across the world.

Speaking at a Vesak Day commemoration at the United Nations, Pakistan’s Ambassador Munir Akram said Buddha’s teachings had continued to influence generations by promoting peace and respect for humanity.

The event, marking the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautam Buddha, was co-sponsored by the Permanent Missions of Thailand and Sri Lanka to the United Nations.

Akram highlighted the historical influence of Buddhist civilisation in the region, pointing to ancient Taxila and the Buddhist monastery complex at Takht-i-Bahi as examples of a cultural legacy that has contributed significantly to Pakistan and the wider Indus Valley.

He described Vesak as an opportunity to reflect on the relevance of Buddha’s wisdom in addressing the complex challenges confronting the modern world.

The Pakistani envoy stressed that peace, mutual understanding and a broader vision of humanity were essential to navigating the conflicts and divisions of the present era.

He called for renewed international efforts to promote compassion and solidarity, particularly towards vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.

“On this Day of Vesak, let’s all reaffirm our commitment to working as one humanity,” Akram said, urging countries and communities to pursue peace and prosperity while ensuring that those most in need are not left behind.

The commemoration underscored the continuing relevance of Buddha’s philosophy of non-violence and compassion at a time of heightened global tensions.