• 28.05.2025 - 18:39

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara and the United Nations Office in Türkiye jointly organized a ceremony on 23 May 2025 at the UN Advocacy Hall in Ankara to mark the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Hasanthi Urugodawatte Dissanayake referred to the UN General Assembly unanimously adopting Resolution 54/115 on 15 December 1999, spearheaded by Sri Lanka’s late Foreign Minister, Hon. Lakshman Kadirgamar. She noted that thanks to his vision, and the support of many member states, including countries which hardly had any Buddhists, like Türkiye, the Resolution was made possible. This landmark resolution, titled “International Recognition of the Day of Vesak at United Nations Headquarters and other United Nations offices,” acknowledged the “contribution of Buddhism to the spirituality of humanity for over two and a half millennia”.

She further underscored that, Sri Lanka, as the initiator of that Resolution, continues to play a prominent role internationally connected to celebrating this important day globally.

Sri Lanka continues to engage in promoting Vesak internationally. In line with these global commitments, it was noted that in 2025, President of Sri Lanka, H. E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake attended the 20th UN Day of Vesak in Viet Nam as the Chief Guest, reflecting Vesak’s power to unite nations through peace and compassion.

Ambassador Dissanayake also emphasized the significance of Buddhist teachings today and Sri Lanka’s continuing leadership in “Buddhist diplomacy.”  She further noted that UN observance highlights Buddhism’s contributions to human spirituality.

UN Resident Coordinator in Türkiye, Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, in his speech, reinforced these sentiments, stating, “In an era of profound global challenges, these timeless principles must guide our shared path forward and inspire us to bridge divides, enhance solidarity, and work together towards a more peaceful, sustainable and harmonious world.” Dr. Ahonsi further affirmed the United Nations’ commitment to interfaith dialogue, spiritual heritage, and cultural diversity, highlighting the alignment of Buddha’s teachings with the UN’s mission to promote peace, human dignity, and sustainable development.

The Message for the Feast of Vesak 2025 from the Dicastery for Interfaith Dialogue, titled “Buddhists and Christians in Liberating Dialogue for Our Time” was delivered on the occasion by Fr. Arnaud du Cheyron, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of the Holy See in Ankara.

Mr. Doğukan Sakar, a Turkish Buddhist enthusiast, delivered a presentation entitled “Therīgāthā and Understanding of Buddhist Philosophy: A Turkish Perspective.” He explained that the Therīgāthā is an early Buddhist text, with “73 poems in which the early nuns (bhikkhunis) recount their struggles and accomplishments” and discussed its timeless lessons with direct and nuanced referrals to the lives of women, both lay and ascetic, between 5th  and 4th century B.C. in India and is considered as the earliest known collection of contemplative women’s voices in the world. The oral tradition, for the first time written down in 1st century B.C. in Sri Lanka while the earliest manuscripts exiting today are from 12th century AC.Mr. Doğukan Sakar, who is a professional translator has translated Therīgāthā to Turkish already and is to be published soon.

Ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions and UN and international agencies, Turkish diplomats and academics in Ankara joined the commemoration, illustrating the interfaith and diplomatic reach of Vesak Day.

The hall was adorned with Vesak lanterns, Buddhist flags and photos depicting Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and the event concluded with Sri Lankan tea and traditional refreshments.