Sangha leaders and Buddhist representatives from 85 countries joined the opening ceremony of the 20th World Vesak Day. Vietnam’s President Luong Quang presided over the ceremony at the Vietnam Buddhist University, while Thailand’s Prime Minister assigned Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol, Minister of Culture, to deliver remarks to 2,700 Buddhist leaders and delegates.

On May 6, at Vietnam Buddhist University in Ho Chi Minh City, over 2,700 Buddhist monks and lay leaders from 85 countries attended the ceremony.

His Eminence Thich Thien Nhon delivered the welcoming remarks, followed by the opening address by Phra Brahmapundit. Congratulatory messages from international Buddhist leaders—including the President of the Buddhist Association of China and the Supreme Patriarch of Vietnam—were also delivered.

Phra Brahmasenabodi, representing the Thai Sangha, delivered a congratulatory message emphasizing global crises of conflict and violence and highlighting the Buddhist principle of metta as a foundation for peace. Messages were also delivered by the UN Secretary-General, the UNESCO Director-General, and heads of state. Thailand: On behalf of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Minister of Culture emphasized the timeless teachings of the Buddha—humility, compassion, understanding, and peace—highlighting humanity’s interconnectedness and inherent dignity. She extended congratulations to Vietnam on the 50th anniversary of reunification and emphasized strengthened cooperation between Thailand and Vietnam, as well as Thailand’s commitment to supporting Buddhism on the global stage.

Afternoon session: Buddhist chanting for world peace, followed by a panel discussion on “Unity and Embracing Diversity for Human Dignity.” Evening: World Peace Candle Lighting Ceremony. Phra Brahmapundit praised Vietnam’s government and Sangha as hosts of the 20th World Vesak Day, marking the third time Vietnam has hosted the event.

The event runs from May 6–8 in Vietnam, and on May 10, global Buddhist leaders will attend the official celebration at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok.