Lumbini: The third edition of the Lumbini International Peace Festival commenced on Thursday in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, bringing together international participants to promote peace, spirituality, and global harmony.
Jointly organized by the Nepal Tourism Board and the Embassy of China in Nepal, the three days festival was inaugurated by Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Anil Kumar Sinha, who attended as chief guest. Addressing the opening ceremony, Minister Sinha underscored the growing relevance of Buddha’s teachings in a world increasingly marked by conflict and instability.
“In today’s turbulent global environment, the message of compassion, non-violence, and coexistence taught by Lord Buddha is more important than ever,” he said. He added that Lumbini is once again reaffirming its role as a global spiritual hub, with participation from diverse countries transforming the site into a truly international platform. “Nepal seeks to further strengthen its identity as a center for spiritual tourism while deepening cooperation with the global community,” he noted.
Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chang Maoming, highlighted that peace has become a fundamental aspiration for humanity amid rising geopolitical tensions and uncertainties. He reiterated China’s commitment to peaceful development and collaboration with peace-loving nations worldwide. Emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual ties between Nepal and China, Ambassador Chang described Lumbini as a global symbol of peace. “I am confident that this festival will further strengthen the historic friendship and Buddhist connections between our two countries,” he said.
Chairperson of the Nepal Olympic Committee, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, described Lumbini as a shared heritage of all humanity, from where the universal message of peace and coexistence has spread across the world.
