On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Thailand, emphasizing their historical connections spanning over 2,000 years. He highlighted the role of Asian traditions in fostering peace and harmony.
Speaking on the occasion of ‘SAMVAD – the Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative for Conflict Avoidance and Environmental Consciousness’ in Thailand, PM Modi praised the host nation’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
PM Modi stated, “Thailand is a beautiful example of Asia’s philosophical and spiritual traditions.”
PM Modi shared that the concept of SAMVAD originated in 2015 during a discussion with former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Since then, the initiative has spread globally, fostering discussions, exchanges, and mutual understanding.
PM Modi emphasized the long-standing cultural ties between India and Japan, which have existed for over 2,000 years.
“The Ramayan and Ramakien connect us, and our shared reverence for Bhagwan Buddha unites us. Last year, when we sent holy relics of Bhagwan Buddha, billions of devotees paid their respects,” the Prime Minister asserted.
PM Modi further discussed how India’s ‘Act East’ policy aligns with Thailand’s ‘Act West’ strategy, fostering cooperation for regional development.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the concept of an ‘Asian Century’ should extend beyond economic growth to include shared values and traditions.
“The teachings of Bhagwan Buddha can guide the world in creating a peaceful and progressive era. His wisdom holds the power to lead us towards a human-centric future,” PM Modi remarked.
Addressing the theme of conflict avoidance, PM Modi said, “One of the core themes of SAMVAD is conflict avoidance. Often, conflicts arise from the feeling that only our path is correct while all others are wrong. Bhagwan Buddha offers insights into this issue.”
“Another cause of conflict is perceiving others as fundamentally different from ourselves. Differences lead to distance, and distance can turn into discord. Everyone fears pain and death. By recognising others as similar to ourselves, we can ensure that no harm or violence occurs,” the Prime Minister further added.
PM Modi also spoke about the environmental challenges, noting, “Today, conflicts extend beyond people and nations. Humanity is increasingly in conflict with nature. This has led to an environmental crisis that threatens our planet. The answer to this challenge lies in the shared traditions of Asia, rooted in the principle of Dhamma. Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism, and other Asian traditions teach us to live in harmony with nature. We do not see ourselves as separate from nature but as a part of it.”
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s efforts in promoting Buddhist heritage, asserting, “Recently, the first Asian Buddhist Summit was held in India under the theme, ‘The Role of Buddhadhamma in Strengthening Asia’. Earlier, India hosted the first Global Buddhist Summit. I had the honour of laying the foundation stone for the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage at Lumbini, Nepal. India has also contributed to the construction of the Lumbini Museum.”
Reflecting on the restoration of Nalanda University, PM Modi called it a symbol of resilience.
“One of the greatest universities in history was destroyed centuries ago by the forces of conflict. But we have shown our resilience by now reviving it as a centre of learning. With the blessings of Bhagwan Buddha, I am confident that Nalanda University will regain its former glory,” the PM noted.
The fourth edition of SAMVAD, held from 14 to 17 February in Thailand, continues its mission of fostering dialogue and collaboration.
Launched by PM Modi and former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe in 2015, the initiative is led by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in India, with the Japan Foundation playing a key role as a partner.
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