Peace Walk and International Conference Culminates in Ladakh Peace Declaration
On July 16, a peace walk and an international conference on World Peace concluded with the signing of a ten-point Ladakh peace declaration, urging an urgent ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, while committing to non-violence and the pursuit of global peace.
The event witnessed the participation of thousands of religious leaders, eminent scholars, academicians, and devotees. Signatories of the Ladakh peace declaration, representing various faiths, religious bodies, and academic institutions, came together with the common goal of promoting peace and harmony.
The declaration was formally signed after a 32-day Padh Yatra, in which 150 Buddhist monks and laypersons from Thailand culminated at Leh’s Shanti Stupa. Following the peace walk, an international conference for world peace was held in Ladakh.
During the World Peace Conference in Leh, participants lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in spreading the message of peace and communal harmony globally. Many regarded him as a Global Peacemaker, praising his call for finding solutions to global issues through dialogue and mutual understanding.
Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, MP Ladakh, echoed the sentiments of Bhikkhu Sanghsena, the Founder of Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), who referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the ‘Karmyogi’ – a spiritual leader of global stature. His consistent commitment to peace-making and efforts to revive Buddhism have left a profound impact on the world.
Her Excellency Ms. Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador of Thailand to India, highlighted the teachings of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of inner peace through meditation and practicing Lord Buddha’s teachings. She also commended the strong bilateral relationship between India and Thailand, which actively promotes peace and harmony on a global scale.
IMF Convenor Satnam Singh Sandhu emphasized the increasing significance of peace in the face of numerous challenges that the world is currently confronting. The IMF works to foster unity among different communities and contribute to the prosperity and development of India by bringing people from diverse religions and cultures together.
Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder and President of MIMC, saw the event as a beacon of hope guiding us towards peace and harmony in a world grappling with multiple challenges. Religious leaders and devotees gathered from various parts of the country and abroad to deliberate on ways to promote peace globally.
The event highlighted India’s exemplary role in spreading the message of peace worldwide, and the unwavering commitment of PM Modi to find solutions to global issues through dialogue and understanding, earning appreciation from all quarters.
Sonam Parvez, Chairman of the Christian Community, and Ravindra Panth, Director of the International Buddhist Confederation, also shared their thoughts during the occasion.
