Download I deem it a resounding victory and a momentous achievement

I deem it a resounding victory and a momentous achievement gained by us as a nation
when the United Nations decided to hold the fourteenth Vesak Celebrations of it, in Sri
Lanka in 2017.As the Minister of Buddhasasana, I derive immense pleasure by Sri Lanka
being able to get the UN to willingly approve the holding of this sublime celebration in
Sri Lanka.
It is a matter of great delight for us to hold this significant event in a befitting manner
with the guidance and counseling of our most venerable Mahanyake Theroes of the
three chapters and also with the able and astute participation of his Excellency the
President of Sri Lanka the Hon. Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, world leaders and that of the
leaders from diverse organization. It is also pleasing to note that Sri Lankans are
preparing to celebrate this significant event in a glorious manner which deserves the
highest form of serenity and reverence.
It is with great honourand gratitude that we commemorate the name of Professor
Dr.Gunapala Malalaselara who played a historic role by suggesting to present a
resolution as far back in 1950. UN and also of Hon.Lakshman Kadiragamar then Foreign
Minister who moved the resolution to declare Vesak as an international day of
celebrations.
It is indeed a great honor that I got to the opportunity to deliver the key note address at
the U.N. Vesak day celebration held in Bangkok in May 2016, which enabled me to get
Sri Lanka the opportunity to hold this historic celebration in 2017.
I made use of this opportunity to get that august assembly to recognize the Vesak day as
a day of global holiday considering its significance.
A paramount duty cast upon us by this conference is the good fortune it has provided to
propagate Buddhism with its attendant discipline and sublime morals, to the whole
world.
Therefore let us take this opportunity to carry forward the message of theBuddha from
this land which was made sacred by His visits, and dedicate ourselves to usher in world
peace and international reconciliation which are of vital importance to the world today.
Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe,
President’s Counsel
Minister of Justice and Buddhasasana