COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today called on the Sri Lankans to learn to respect other religions, cultures and individuals for peaceful coexistence. In a message to mark the Poson Poya Day, today, the Premier asked the people to follow the “hallowed principles of non-violence and compassion” enshrined in Buddhism to coexist in peace and harmony. Full text of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s message:
The visit of Arahat Mahinda to Sri Lanka heralded in a new chapter in the country’s history, with the hallowed principles of non-violence and compassion as enshrined in Buddhism, taking center stage. It not only transformed the Sri Lankan way of life but also made a strong impact on our social discourse; agriculture, hydro civilization, cultural pursuits and governance were some of the key areas that were influenced by Buddhist values and traditions. Today, Sri Lanka is recognized as a strategic center for Theravada Buddhism, the principles of which have been central to its people and their way of thinking. As a result, we have had the honor of hosting the International Vesak Festival and the International Buddhist Congress. May the true doctrine of Buddhism, its compassion and non-violent principles encourage us to live in harmony and peaceful co-existence, while respecting other religions and other cultures. This Poson, may we be able to set our hearts and minds to making such a vision a reality.
