Statement by H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Minami

Ambassador, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations

On the occasion of the Day of Vesak

20 May 2016

 

Excellencies,

Religious leaders,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

 

      

          It is a great honor for me to have this opportunity to address you on the occasion of the Day of Vesak.

 

          To begin with, I would like to express, on behalf of the people of Japan, our sincere condolences to the victims and their families of Sri Lanka affected by the flood and landslides.

 

          I also express our gratitude for the sympathy and solidarity that the international society demonstrated after the earthquakes which struck the western part of Japan on 15 April.

 

          Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

 

          The Day of Vesak, which we are celebrating today, is the most sacred event for Buddhists across the world. 　

          Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the mid-sixth century and became deeply rooted in Japanese society and culture, and informs the lives of modern Japanese people today.

          Throughout Japan, Buddhist temples commemorate Vesak day by holding “Hana-Matsuri”, which you have just seen in the short video.

 

 

          Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

 

          In the current world, violent extremism is an affront to the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Religious tolerance and mutual understanding are therefore more important.

 

          Buddhism itself is a faith that is characterized by spirit of tolerance, harmony, peace and compassion, and it has expanded in a way that is respectful of other traditions and religions.

 

          Non-violence is at the heart of Buddhist thought and religious practice. The first of the Five Precepts that all Buddhists are called upon to follow is “to abstain from killing”.

 

          Nothing in Buddhist scripture gives any support to the use of violence as a way to resolve conflict.

I would like to recall one of Lord Buddha's sermons;

 

          “In times of war,

          Give rise in yourself to the mind of compassion,

          Helping living beings,

          Abandon the will to fight.”

 

          I believe that Lord Buddha’s timeless teaching can inspire and guide us in our efforts for the common good and the betterment of humankind, and to overcome the challenges of modern society.

 

          Thank you.