United Nations Secretary-General | Statements and messages | 9 May 2024
Buddha’s timeless teachings of peace, compassion are pathway to better, more harmonious world, Secretary-General says in Day of Vesak Observance message
Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message on the Day of Vesak, observed on 23 May:
Today, Buddhists across the globe celebrate Vesak Day, which marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.
Last October, I had the privilege of travelling to the Buddha’s birthplace of Lumbini, Nepal. This deeply inspiring visit re-affirmed my conviction that the Buddha’s timeless teachings of peace, compassion and service to others are the pathway to a better, more understanding and harmonious world for all.
Today and every day, let us be guided by the spirit of Vesak and by a renewed faith in what we can accomplish as a united human family. Let’s work as one to build a more peaceful and sustainable future.
The name Vesak is derived from the Pali term vesākha or Sanskrit vaiśākha for the lunar month of Vaisakha, which is considered the month of Buddha's birth. | Wikipedia
