Sri Lanka, April 7 -- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake extended an appeal to the global community to draw upon the illumination of Buddhist philosophy in building a world where the fires of war are extinguished and peace, development and mutual respect prevail among all nations and peoples.

President Dissanayake made this statement while delivering the keynote address at the 20th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations, which commenced in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam yesterday (6).

Vesak celebrations will be held this year under the theme "Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development." The event, held from May 6 to 8, will bring together over 2,800 participants, including high-l...