Bangkok, February 14 (IANS) – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday underscored the deep cultural and historical ties between India and Thailand, which span over 2,000 years. Speaking at the ongoing SAMVAD – The Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative for Conflict Avoidance and Environmental Consciousness in Thailand, he emphasized the significance of Asian traditions in promoting peace, harmony, and sustainability.
PM Modi expressed his delight at SAMVAD being held in Thailand, a nation rich in culture, history, and heritage. He described Thailand as a beautiful representation of Asia’s philosophical and spiritual traditions, which serve as an anchor for fostering peace and understanding.
The Prime Minister reflected on the origins of SAMVAD, which was first conceived in 2015 during discussions with the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Since its inception, SAMVAD has traveled to various countries, promoting meaningful dialogue and fostering a deeper understanding of shared values and philosophies.
Highlighting the cultural bonds between India and Thailand, PM Modi mentioned the shared reverence for Lord Buddha and the connections between the Ramayan and the Ramakien. He also cited the recent gesture of sending sacred Buddhist relics from India, which were widely venerated by billions of devotees across the world.
The Prime Minister also discussed the complementary nature of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Thailand’s ‘Act West’ policy, which aim to drive mutual progress and prosperity for both nations. He further emphasized that the ‘Asian Century’ is not only about economic growth but also about the promotion of social values, rooted in the wisdom of Asian spiritual traditions.
In his address, PM Modi emphasized that the teachings of Lord Buddha could serve as a guiding light in the quest for peace and progress. He highlighted the importance of conflict avoidance, noting that many conflicts stem from the belief that only one path is correct, and the other is wrong. Drawing from Buddhist teachings, he encouraged recognizing the commonalities that bind us, rather than focusing on differences that breed division.
PM Modi also spoke on the growing environmental crisis, pointing out that humanity’s increasing conflict with nature threatens the planet’s future. He called on the shared Asian traditions, which advocate for living in harmony with nature, to provide a solution. The principle of Dhamma, which emphasizes oneness with nature, is crucial to mitigating the environmental challenges the world faces today.
The Prime Minister also touched upon India’s commitment to preserving and promoting Buddhist heritage. He referenced significant milestones, including the hosting of the first Asian Buddhist Summit, the first Global Buddhist Summit in India, and the establishment of the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage at Lumbini, Nepal. He further highlighted India’s role in the construction of the Lumbini Museum.
Reflecting on the revival of Nalanda University, PM Modi noted the institution’s historical significance, stating that despite being destroyed by forces of conflict centuries ago, it has been revived as a center of learning. With the blessings of Lord Buddha, he expressed confidence that Nalanda University would regain its former glory and continue to serve as a beacon of knowledge.
The fourth edition of SAMVAD is being held in Thailand from February 14 to 17. This flagship outreach program, initiated by Prime Minister Modi and the late Prime Minister Abe, is organized by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in India, with the Japan Foundation as a key partner.
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