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'Buddhism, an inspiration for peace'

The inspiration that can be drawn from Buddhism is immense in our present efforts to establish peace with dignity by ending the war, President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga states in her Vesak message.

"Guaranteeing equal rights, upholding human rights and democratic freedoms of all communities with equality is the requisite basis for an enduring peace," she said.

The message further said, "I wish all Sri Lankan Buddhists, both here and overseas, a happy Vesak, It is a day on which we commemorate the three significant events in the life of Lord Buddha; his birth, enlightenment and passing away.

Buddhism is a living philosophy, which goes beyond just a religion. It is a way of life. The greatness of Buddhism has been confirmed even by the modern scientific discoveries.

Buddhism teaches us the importance of living a detached life devoid of prejudices. Equality, love and compassion are its foundations.

To be free from enmity and vengeance are lofty ideals of Buddhism.

The freedom of thought is given the pride of place in Buddhist philosophy. All these can be regarded as core values necessary for an advanced democratic society.

Buddhist philosophy is a source of guidance and inspiration to find solutions to most of the current problems, created by man himself, and it helps conflict resolution.

Even in our present efforts to establish peace with dignity by ending the war, the inspiration that can be drawn from Buddhism is immense.

Guaranteeing equal rights, upholding human rights and democratic freedoms of all communities with equality is the requisite basis for an enduring peace. If we act upon the noble principles of Buddhist philosophy, I am sure it will not be difficult for us to build this foundation.

Therefore, on this Full Moon day of Vesak, I appeal to the entire Buddhist community of this country to make a firm determination to mould our lives according to the tenets of Dhamma as enunciated by Lord Buddha for the benefit of the mankind. Wish you all a Happy Vesak!"

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