Nanhai Buddhist Roundtable Forum: A Gathering for Global Peace and Harmony in Kathmandu

On December 13, 2024, Kathmandu, Nepal, witnessed a significant event as the 9th Nanhai Buddhist Roundtable Forum convened, stirring enthusiasm among hundreds of Buddhist leaders and believers. This forum took place in the birthplace of the Buddha, emphasizing its spiritual importance. Participants represented 28 countries and regions, including notable cultures like China, Nepal, Thailand, India, the United States, and Russia. Their presence underscored a unified commitment to the themes of peace and development, central to this year’s discussions.

The ceremony opened with poignant speeches from key figures, including Nepal's Prime Minister Sharma Oli, Chinese Ambassador Chen Song, and Wang Qiang, President of the Shenzhen Overseas Friendship Association. Each addressed the gathering, highlighting the critical role such forums play in bridging cultures through shared religious values and promoting a dialogue of compassion and understanding.

A keynote address was delivered by Venerable Yin Shun, the Vice President of the Buddhist Association of China and abbot of Hongfa Temple in Shenzhen. He pointed out that this year marked the fifth anniversary of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal and celebrated the implementation of the Declaration of Mount Xuedou sanctioned by the World Buddhist Forum. Yin Shun articulated the dire need to foster ties between China and Nepal to enhance cultural heritage and share wisdom that could contribute to global understanding and harmony.

In messages of support, many dignitaries from around the world sent letters or recorded videos, including Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, the President of the Central Committee of the Lao Front for National Construction, who expressed hope for the next forum to be held in Laos in 2025. He lauded Venerable Yin Shun as a “contemporary Xuanzang” for his pivotal role in facilitating international dialogues centered around Buddhist culture.

The thematic focus of the forum, "Flowing of One Dharma, Harmonizing the World," allowed representatives to engage deeply in discussions concerning shared values, responsibilities, and the collective future of Buddhist communities globally. Forum participants collectively signed an initiative that encapsulated their commitments towards religious dialogue and mutual understanding.

The event also showcased the enthusiasm of more than 200 believers from Shenzhen who chartered a plane, highlighting the dedication of the Buddhist community. They participated in a subsequent Prayer for World Peace Puja held at the China Temple in Lumbini, a significant site for Buddha's teachings, showcasing the combined efforts of these communities to promote peace through prayer and reflection.

Prior to the Kathmandu gathering, the forum's launching ceremony was held on December 6 in Bangkok, Thailand, which included an educational sub-forum. The events converged to inspire additional initiatives like the youth sub-forum and the Silk Road Light and Charity Journey, further encouraging engagement among newer generations and promoting charitable initiatives across the regions involved.

As the 9th Nanhai Buddhist Roundtable Forum concluded, it fortified the bonds of community among participants and renewed their commitment to advancing peace and comprehensive understanding across borders. The ongoing dialogue established here will undoubtedly echo in the efforts and initiatives of the global Buddhist community, continuing the vital work begun in Kathmandu today.