The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka joined hands with the Permanent Mission of Thailand in organizing the celebration of the International Day of Vesak at the Palais des Nations, where the UN Office is located in Geneva, on 14 May 2025, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Foundation in Geneva. This year marks the third such observance jointly organized by Sri Lanka and Thailand. Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director General of the UN Office in Geneva graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The significant role played by Sri Lanka under the leadership of then Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, in gaining international recognition for the Day of Vesak in 1999 was highlighted by Ambassador Himalee Arunatilaka, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka, in her welcome remarks.
A draft resolution titled ‘International recognition of the Day of Vesak at United Nations Headquarters and other United Nations offices’ was tabled by late Minister Kadirgamar at the United Nations General Assembly on behalf of 10 countries namely; Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Laos, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The resolution was co-sponsored by a cross regional group of 34 countries while acknowledging the significance of the teaching and practice of Buddhism and its continued contribution to spirituality and humanity for over two and a half millennia.
The Co-host of the event, Ambassador Usana Berananda, Permanent Representative of Thailand, and Chief Guest, Director General Valovaya, also delivered remarks on the occasion.
Venerable Phramaha Bhatsakorn Piyobhaso, Vice Chairman of the Council of Thai Buddhist Monks of the United Kingdom and Ireland addressed the gathering focusing on ‘Buddhism and Environment’ and conveyed the message of the Buddha to live in harmony with all living beings. Venerable Phra Sander Khemadhammo from Dhammakaya Temple in the Netherlands and representative of the Union of Thai Sangha in Europe in his address highlighted the historical links between Sri Lanka and Thailand deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism.
Special messages were also delivered by the Ambassadors of Bhutan, India, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Vietnam and representatives of China, Singapore, Republic of Korea and Japan on the occasion.
Among the nearly 300 guests that participated were the Ambassadors and Permanent Representatives of Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, El Salvador, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Panama, Spain, Uganda and representatives from Pakistan, Mozambique, France, Portugal, Andorra, UK, Lebanon and many others. Sri Lankan and Thai Buddhist communities living in Switzerland also participated.
The formal programme was followed by a short religious part that included a guided meditation conducted by the Members of the Maha Sangha and chanting of the Karaniya Metta Sutta invoking blessings on all. The event concluded with Sri Lankan and Thai refreshments.
Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva
14 May 2025
The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva and Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Switzerland hosted an event to celebrate the 77th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka with the participation of Sri Lankan community in Switzerland, at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) premises in Geneva on 19th February 2025.
The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva celebrated the 77th Anniversary of Independence Day of Sri Lanka with a multi-religious ceremony attended by the representatives of Sri Lankan Community and the Mission staff.
The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka took part in the UN Women's Guild Bazaar at UN Geneva held on 19 November 2024 which brings together a rich diversity of nationalities and cultures to help disadvantaged children around the world. SriLanka promoted Ceylon Tea, batik, accessories and handicrafts as well as authentic SriLankan cuisine. The revenue of the Bazaar will go to charity to help children in need.
For the second consecutive year, the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka joined hands with the Permanent Mission of Thailand in Geneva to organize the celebration of the International Day of Vesak at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, on 24 May 2024, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Foundation.
The Director General of the UN Office in Geneva Tatiana Valovaya graced the event as the Chief Guest.
The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva hosted an event to celebrate the 76th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka with the participation of the Sri Lankan community in Switzerland, at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) premises in Geneva on 08th February 2024.
