PGA Remarks at the event to commemorate the International Day of Vesak,

Remarks on behalf of the President of the UN General Assembly,

H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang,

at the event to commemorate the International Day of Vesak,

hosted by the Permanent Missions of Sri Lanka and Thailand

Wednesday, 14 May 2025

[As Delivered]

Your Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon.

I deliver these remarks on behalf of the President of the General Assembly, H. E. Mr. Philemon Yang. I quote:

“It is a pleasure to join you in celebrating the International Day of Vesak.

I express my sincere appreciation to the Permanent Missions of Sri Lanka and Thailand for co-hosting this commemoration.

In honouring this sacred occasion, we not only honour the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautama Buddha.

We honour the enduring relevance of his teachings.

We are reminded that the Buddha’s path was not one of conquest or division.

But rather awakening, compassion and peace.

The teachings of Gautama Buddha offer timeless guidance for both personal transformation and global harmony.

His message was simple, yet profound: peace begins within.

He taught that suffering, while a part of life, can be transcended through awareness, ethical living and compassion.

His teachings of non-violence, and compassion call on us all to be custodians of peace.

Peace that begins within our hearts.

Peace that radiates outward through our actions, our institutions and our international relations.

These teachings have influenced countless leaders from Mahatma Gandhi to Martin Luther King Jr. to Nelson Mandela.

They have inspired people around the world to stand up for their rights without the use of violence.

And they continue to offer a foundation for policy, peacebuilding and international cooperation today.

A foundation rooted in compassion, wisdom, and moral clarity.

As diplomats, leaders, civil society members – and indeed global citizens – let us draw inspiration from these teachings.

Let us resolve to set aside our differences.

Foster understanding.

Live with awareness.

Govern with wisdom.

Prioritise the welfare of all peoples, of all faiths and creeds.

And ensure a future of peace and dignity for everyone, everywhere.

I thank you.”

End quote.

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