International Symposium on “From Gandhara to the World: The Legacy of Gandhara Buddhism” commences in Islamabad
Two day International Symposium on “From Gandhara to the World: The Legacy of Gandhara Buddhism” organized in connection with the Vesak Day of 2024 by the Government of Pakistan commenced in Islamabad on 28th May 2024.
Welcome Address was delivered by Mr Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi Foreign Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan and Hon. Vidura Wickramanayaka, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Sri Lanka delivered the key note speech at the inauguration session. The minister said that the diverse gathering representing different countries and cultures underscored the deep and enduring ties between the nations, besides serving as a reminder of the profound connections that unite them in shared aspirations.
Dignitaries and scholars attending the symposium from China, Thailand and Vietnam too made their speeches on the importance of Gandhara Buddhism.
An exhibition of artifacts, replicas, and photographs was also organized at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to showcase Buddhist heritage in different countries including Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s Buddhist cultural heritage and Gandhara civilization.
On conclusion of the symposium two day visit is scheduled for visiting delegations to Buddhist heritage sites/Museums at Taxila, Peshawar and Lahore.