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Secretary General's message
Vesak and UN have shared ideals
"The ideals we celebrate on Vesak Day are close to those of the United Nations - understanding among peoples, the pursuit of harmony, the promotion of peace" says Kofi Annan, United Nations Secretary General in his message on the occasion of the day of Vesak.

The full text of the message reads:
"I send you my warmest greetings on the Day of Vesak when we commemorate the birth, enlightenment and passing away of the Buddha. The ideals we celebrate on this day are close to those of the United Nations - understanding among peoples, the pursuit of harmony, the promotion of peace.

This day of Vesak falls at a special time for the United Nations. This year not only marks the 60th anniversary of our founding at the end of the Second World War. It is also a year in which we are thinking ahead and engaging in a constructive debate about the future, how to defeat poverty, how to build a collective security system able to meet our common threats, and how to increase respect for human dignity in every land. I believe that historic, fundamental progress is possible. But it will depend on the will of Governments, and on the engagement of groups and individuals around the world.

As we mark this year's day of Vesak, let us remember that whatever our origin, race, culture or belief we share the same home - a small, single planet on which we are bound to live together. Let us resolve to work together towards the common good and the harmonious and peaceful coexistence of all the world's people. I thank all of you for your commitment to those ideals, and wish you a wonderful celebration for the Day of Vesak.

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