New York – 5 June 2015
Delivered by H.E. Mrs. Lyutha Al-Mughairy Representative of the Sultanate of Oman on behalf of President Kutesa
Excellencies,
Religious leaders.
Distinguished delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the President of the General Assembly, His Excellency, Sam Kahamba Kutesa, as we celebrate the International Day of Vesak.
Today’s celebration of Vesak Day is a most sacred time for Buddhists around the world. It marks three major events in Lord Buddha’s life; his birth, his attainment of enlightenment and his passing.
The messages of peace, compassion and love for all of God’s creations, taught by Lord Buddha, are as relevant today as they were 2500 years ago. His teachings can inspire and guide us in our efforts for the common good and the betterment of humankind.
Vesak Day also provides us all an opportunity to reflect on our responsibilities to the most vulnerable. We should all strive to continue our important work aimed at eradicating hunger and poverty, and ending discrimination, injustice, deprivation and suffering.
Further, today also allows us to recall the importance of respect for religious and cultural diversity and the need for a peaceful and harmonious world.
I thank the Permanent Mission of Thailand and the well-wishers for organizing this event and appreciate your kind attention.
