As the distinguished permanent representatives have said, we were originally meant to gather on May 7th, the date of this year’s Vesak Day, which marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of Lord Buddha.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to postpone that gathering.
So today I thank the Governments of Sri Lanka and Thailand for bringing us together, and I extend a warm welcome to all who are joining this virtual event.
In any year, this observance is sacred to millions of Buddhists around the world.