Ambassador Đặng Đình Quý, head of the Việt Nam Permanent Mission to the United Nations attends an online ceremony on Thursday (local time) marking the International Day of Vesak, the day when the Buddha was born.— Photo UN

NEW YORK — Ambassador Đặng Đình Quý, head of the Việt Nam Permanent Mission to the United Nations, has reaffirmed the value and vitality of Buddhist doctrines as the world faces conflicts, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.

He was speaking during an online ceremony on Thursday (local time) marking the International Day of Vesak, the day when the Buddha was born.

In face of such threats, Quý highlighted the common sense of responsibility for a world without pain and suffering, heightened kindness to end and prevent violence and tension, promoting cooperation and narrow differences, to strive for common interests of humanity.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also spoke of the timeless value of Buddha’s message of unity and service to others, especially at a time when the world is confronting challenges caused by COVID-19.

Via international co-operation, countries could overcome difficulties and build a sustainable and self-reliant world with equality for all, which is the spirit of Buddhism and vitality of the UN Charter, he said.

President of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly Tijjani Muhammad-Bande also highlighted the importance of compassion, mutual understanding and respect, saying they are values that the UN are promoting, contributing to living together peacefully in a diverse world.

In 1999, the UN General Assembly issued Resolution No.54/115 designating the full moon day of the fifth lunar month as the International Vesak Day. Since 2000, the UN has celebrated the annual event with various socio-cultural activities. — VNS