International Buddhist Chanting Ceremony & World Peace Seminar

On June 16, 2019, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU) and the World Peace Association (WPA) co-hosted the International Buddhist Chanting Ceremony and World Peace Conference for the Royal Coronation of His Majesty King Rama X, at theMCU campus in Ayutthaya, Thailand.

 Around 6,900 people attended the ceremony, including 2,600 monks from three Buddhist traditions across 16 countries. During the event, 2,600 elders and monks received financial support. 

 Thailand’s Minister of Culture Vira Rojpojchanarat presided over the International Buddhist Chanting Ceremony and delivered a keynote speech. Later, India Foundation Director Ram Madhav delivered a speech about world peace and development. In particular, he discussed how religious harmony will bring love and peace to the world.

 Mr. Xiao Wunan, International Chairman of the United Nations’ Religion and Cooperation Organization, said in his speech that religions, cultures, politics and other channels should be established for exchanges and cooperation between countries to promote peace and development worldwide.

 Most Ven. Phra Sophonvachirabhorn (Sawai Choitko), President of MCU, praised the World Peace Association’s donation of 3 million baht to the university, which was presented by WPA Mentor Jing Yao. The donation will be used to establish a Peace Scholarship to help more Buddhist scholars participate in the research of peace topics.

 Subsequently, Ms. Sattva Zhang, Secretary-General of the World Peace Association, stated in her speech: "The goal of the World Peace Association is to reduce world-wide wars, resolve conflicts between nations, and bring peace and development to mankind.” Later, a forum titled "Religious Harmony, Bringing Love and Peace to the World"  was held. 

 After the successful completion of the forum, Thai Vice Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam met with the senior leader of the World Peace Association, Master Jing Yao. He thanked the World Peace Association for hosting the ceremony in Thailand, and hoped that the World Peace Association can strengthen cooperation with Thailand in the future and jointly promote the development of the cause of peace.

 After the meeting, members of the World Peace Association delegation were also personally received by Somdet Phra Ariyavangsagatayana Somdet Phra Sangharaja. He blessed the members of the World Peace Association delegation and sent a message to all members of the association to continue their efforts to make human life better.