SATV Dec 13, Kathmandu: The Ninth Nanhai Buddhist Roundtable successfully concluded in Kathmandu, Nepal. The event was graced by the presence of Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song, Vice President of the Buddhist Association of China, Yin Shun, and delegates from various countries.

During his address, Prime Minister Oli warmly welcomed all the participants and wished for the success of the conference. He expressed his happiness that Buddhism is not just a religion but has become an integral part of economic, cultural, and lifestyle practices. He also highlighted the collaborative efforts between Nanhai Academy and Nepal’s Lumbini Buddhist University in promoting Buddhist education. Prime Minister Oli thanked the organizers for hosting such an event in Nepal, the birthplace of Buddha, further cementing Nepal’s recognition as the cradle of Buddhism on the global stage.

Ambassador Chen Song emphasized the deep cultural exchanges between Nepal and China, which have spanned centuries, strengthening bilateral ties. He regarded the hosting of the Ninth Nanhai Buddhist Conference in Nepal as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations. Ambassador Chen highlighted the shared vision for humanity’s collective future, especially as Nepal and China prepare to celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations next year. He expressed China’s commitment to deeper collaboration with Nepal, particularly through high-quality initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), to foster mutual trust and strategic partnerships.

Vice President Yin Shun of the Buddhist Association of China expressed his admiration for Nepal as a sacred Buddhist land, stating that hosting the Nanhai Buddhist Conference in the birthplace of Buddha was a privilege. Reflecting on the historical cooperation between Nepalese and Chinese Buddhist scholars, he noted that the conference serves to deepen the ties between the two nations and their Buddhist communities. He also outlined plans to support the preservation of Nepal’s ancient Buddhist sites and contribute to the development of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.

Speakers from various countries shared their insights during the conference, emphasizing its significant role in promoting and revitalizing Buddhism in Nepal and across the Nanhai region. Organizers hailed the conference as a pivotal step toward spreading Buddhist values and fostering cooperation among Buddhist communities worldwide.