Second Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Buddhist Summit opens in Ho Chi Minh City (Photo: VNA)
In his opening remarks, Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, chairman of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS)’s Executive Council, said that for centuries the Mekong River has played its role as a lifeline, not only for the land but also for the common spirit of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
However, the river is currently facing many challenges related to environmental degradation, climate change, poverty, and social inequality that threaten the very fabric of life, he emphasised, calling for the Buddhist Sanghas and communities to work together to create positive changes.
Most Venerable Vong Kim Sorn, chairman of the secretariat of Cambodia’s supreme patriarch council, also called for increased Buddhist co-operation and connectivity among the three countries.
He proposed three pillars of education, culture, and humanitarianism as the foundation in which to create new connections, nurture compassion, and honour the linkage between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism traditions.
Most Venerable Maha Bounma Simmaphom, president of the Buddhist Fellowship Organisation of Laos, shared measures in order to create new connections in education, culture, and humanitarianism.
During the course of the three-day event, participants are expected to compare notes on the role of Buddhism in promoting peace, harmony, and environmental protection in the region.
A prayer for the world's peace will be held at the end of the summit.