New Delhi, Nov 2: The Union Ministry of Culture in collaobration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) will organize the First Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) on 5th - 6th November in New Delhi.
The theme of this summit is on ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’. The President of India is expected to grace the event as the chief guest. Through the summit, it shall bring together Sangha leaders, scholars, experts and practitioners from various Buddhist traditions across Asia to foster dialogue, promote understanding and address contemporary challenges faced by the Buddhist community. Buddhism holds a unique position in the spiritual and cultural history of India and pan Asia.
The teachings of the Buddha, His disciples and preachers has kept Asia united through a common outlook towards life, divinity, and social values. The Buddha Dhamma has emerged as a valuable component of India’s culture, aiding the country in developing steadfast foreign policy and effective diplomatic ties.
From the incorporation of Buddhist symbols as part of independent India’s national identity to the adoption of Buddhist values in its foreign policy, Buddha Dhamma, India and Asia are complimentary to each other. The Summit is also a manifestation of India’s Act East Policy, which is principled on collective, inclusive and spiritual development of Asia with Dhamma as the guiding light.
