Groundbreaking Asian Buddhist Summit 2024 to Convene in New Delhi on November 5-6, President of India to Attend as Chief Guest

• The Ministry of Culture and International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) will host the historic first Asian Buddhist Summit 2024 in New Delhi.
• This groundbreaking event will take place on November 5-6, 2024.
• The President of India will attend as the Chief Guest.
• The summit’s theme is “Buddha Dhamma Strengthens Asia”.

Purpose and Goals

• The New Delhi Buddhist Summit will unite Buddhist leaders, scholars, and practitioners from across Asia.
• Its critical goals are to foster dialogue, promote understanding, and address challenges faced by Buddhists.
• It will explore how the timeless teachings of Buddha can strengthen unity and cooperation in Asia.

Significance of Buddhism in Asia

• Buddhism plays a vital spiritual and cultural role in India and throughout Asia.
• The Buddha’s profound teachings have united Asia through shared values and perspectives on life.
• Buddha Dhamma has become an essential part of India’s rich culture, shaping its foreign policy and diplomacy.

Key Themes

The International Buddhist Confederation Summit will cover several important topics:

1. Buddhist art, architecture, and heritage
2. Spread of Buddha’s transformative teachings across Asia
3. Importance of sacred holy Buddhist relics in society
4. Role of Buddha Dhamma in science and well-being
5. Relevance of Buddhist literature and philosophy in the 21st century

Special Exhibitions

• An extraordinary exhibition titled “India: The Dhamma Bridge Uniting Asia” will be featured.
• It will showcase how India has served as a crucial link for Buddhism across the continent.
• Other captivating displays will also be part of the summit.

Connection to India’s Foreign Policy

• The summit aligns perfectly with India’s visionary “Act East” policy, which emphasizes collective development in Asia.
• It views the Buddha’s enlightening teachings as a guiding light for this inclusive growth.
• From Buddhist symbols in India’s national identity to Buddhist values in its foreign relations, Dhamma is inextricably tied to India’s meaningful engagement with Asia.