PM inspects preparations for UN Day of Vesak 2019

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc inspects preparations for UN Day of Vesak 2019 in Ha Nam – Photo: VGP

The PM asked Ha Nam and the project’s investor to ensure the project’s progress.

Although Viet Nam has successfully hosted the event in 2008 and 2014, the country should be careful in preparation work, ensuring the success of the UN Day of Vesak 2019 and in leaving a positive impression among foreign friends, Phuc stressed.

"Vesak", the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the most sacred day to the millions of Buddhists around the world. It was on the Day of Vesak two and a half millennia ago that the Buddha was born. It was also on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha attained enlightenment, and it was on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha in his 80th year passed away.

The UN Day of Vesak 2019 expects over 10,000 participants, including 1,500 dignitaries, monks, leaders of Buddhist organisations, scientists, and researchers; as well as Buddhist followers from 90-100 countries and territories all over the globe; along with 10,000 Buddhist followers and locals of Viet Nam.

Viet Nam hosted the Fifth and the Eleventh United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations in 2008 and 2014. Since then, Vietnamese Buddhism has witnessed great development in education, culture, social engagement and spiritual practices.

The UN General Assembly on December 15, 1999 recognised the Day of Vesak to celebrate the thrice-sacred event of the life of the Buddha Gautama. The Buddhist community in different countries have organised activities to celebrate this day every year.

By Vien Nhu