Video Message by Mr. Miguel Moratinos
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
at the Virtual Event to Commemorate Vesak Day:
“Healing the World: Prayers and Reflections for All Sentient Beings”
Transcript
Venerable monks,
Distinguished religious and spiritual leaders,
I wish to extend my warmest wishes to all of you celebrating Vesak Day.
This is a day where we commemorate Lord Buddha’s teachings of peace, compassion, humility, and wisdom.
Those virtues embraced by Buddha more than 2,500 years ago, are needed today more than ever before.
The United Nations Community has recognized the significance of that day since 1999 when Member States adopted resolution 54/115 proclaiming the Day of Vesak and acknowledging the contribution of Buddhism to spirituality and humanity.
As we start recovering from the pandemic, we also chart a new course towards rebuilding a better world.
This is where we can draw inspiration from Buddha’s timeless wisdom.
Despite the hardships he faced, his core message was that of tolerance, empathy, and humanism.
These are virtues that can serve as an inspiration to all of us.
At the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, we strive every day to promote and work towards building inclusive peaceful, and just societies with mutual respect, compassion, and unity as its backbone.
This is in line with the Buddha teachings on the fundamental equality of all people regardless of status, or circumstances, or characteristics.
I wish to conclude my message by quoting former United Nations Secretary-General U Thant who said, “When we act with compassion and respect, national and international problems will fall into perspective and become easier to solve.”
I believe this is very true.
So on this Day of Vesak, let us renew our commitment to stand together as One Humanity, show kindness and compassion to the most vulnerable, and truly leave no one behind.
My dear friend let us heal together.
Happy Vesak Day.