The Sri Lanka Embassy in Washington DC hosted a preparatory meeting aimed at commemorating this yearโs Vesak at the White House. Senior officials from the White House, the International Buddhist Association of America, and senior diplomatic representatives from Embassies in Washington DC, representing countries and also who participated last yearโs White House Vesak celebration, with significant Buddhist communities, convened at Sri Lanka House, the official residence of Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe, to discuss holding an official Vesak Celebration at the White House this year.
Ambassador Samarasinghe, in his welcome address, emphasized the holistic significance of Vesak, not only to the people of Sri Lanka but also to approximately 500 million Buddhists worldwide. He highlighted the enduring relevance of Buddha’s message of peace, kindness, and tolerance, which transcends physical and emotional barriers, fostering unity among people.
Expressing the collective sentiment of those gathered, Ambassador Samarasinghe conveyed that it would be an honor for Buddhists worldwide if this yearโs Vesak could be held at the White House under the patronage of the President of the United States.
Senior representatives from the Embassies of Nepal, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Mongolia, and Cambodia, and the President of the International Buddhist Association of America, Ms. Wangmo Dixey, endorsed Ambassador Samarasinghe’s proposal wholeheartedly. They pledged their unwavering support in organizing a befitting event this year to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha and requested from the White House the presence of President Biden at this celebration.
Deputy Assistant to the President Biden and Asian American and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders Liaison, Office of the Chief of Staff Ms. Erika Moritsugu, who led the senior White House delegation, thanked Ambassador Samarasinghe for his leadership in bringing the vibrant diplomatic community in Washington DC together and unifying the strength and voice of the global Buddhist community.
All attendees unanimously agreed to continue the dialogue for the early finalization of matters pertaining to the White House Vesak Ceremony this year.
