The event was organised by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, with participation from representatives of UN member states and international scholars.

Participants highlighted the significance of Vesak, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha, as an occasion to honour the universal values of Buddhism. Speakers described Buddhist heritage as a “bridge of civilizations,” which helps promote dialogue, enhance understanding and connect nations in dealing with global challenges. Initiatives in heritage preservation, linking pilgrimage sites, academic exchange and cultural cooperation are seen as effective channels to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and the foundations for sustainable peace.

Upon addressing the event, Ambassador Do Hung Viet, Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said Buddhist heritage carries not only spiritual value but also offers practical approaches to how nations act, particularly at a time when the world continues to face conflict, division and declining trust. He stressed that core Buddhist values such as peace, compassion and interdependence continue to hold relevance, contributing to stronger cooperation, reduced confrontation and placing people at the centre of all actions.

The ambassador said Buddhism has accompanied and been closely linked with Vietnam’s history of national construction and defence, becoming an integral part of the country’s cultural and spiritual life, helping to reinforce unity and support inclusive development.

On this occasion, he recalled Vietnam’s successful hosting of United Nations Day ofVesak 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City, which drew wide participation from international monks, nuns and followers. The procession of the Buddha’s relic from India to Vietnam during the event became a vivid symbol of cultural exchange, friendship and solidarity among nations.

As part of the programme, the Vietnamese mission also presented a video featuring key moments of the 2025 Vesak celebration in Vietnam, showing the image of a Buddhist community closely connected with the nation and actively contributing to peace, cooperation and sustainable development.

As part of the programme, the Vietnamese mission also presented a video showing key moments of the 2025 Vesak celebration in Vietnam, showing the image of a Buddhist community closely connected with the nation and actively contributing to peace, cooperation and sustainable development.

Vietnam attends International Day of Vesak 2025 at UN Headquarters

VOV.VN - A Vietnamese diplomat attended International Day of Vesak 2025 solemnly commemorated at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on May 14.

Vietnamese pagodas featured in photo exhibition during UN Day of Vesak 2025

VOV.VN - Over 30 photographs featuring Vietnamese pagodas are on display at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City as part of the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025 activities.