By hannover-web.com On October 14, during a press conference for the sixth World Buddhist Forum held in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, it was announced that the event will take place from October 15 to 17. Around 800 participants from the Buddhist community, scholars, and representatives from 72 countries and regions will attend, marking a significant breakthrough in both scale and participation.
The World Buddhist Forum, initiated by China, is recognized as the largest and most influential multilateral dialogue mechanism for Buddhist exchanges globally. Co-hosted by the Chinese Buddhist Association and the China Religious Culture Exchange Association, this year’s forum bears the theme “Walking Together, Living Together.”
Ming Hai, Vice President of the Chinese Buddhist Association, explained that the phrase “Walking Together” reflects a core Buddhist value, while “Living Together” embodies the fundamental Buddhist principle of interdependence. He noted the concerning global landscape characterized by unprecedented changes, rising instability, and serious challenges facing human development. This theme aims to inspire the global Buddhist community to unite under a shared vision, embodying the spirit of compassion and cooperation for world peace and mutual development.
The forum will include an opening ceremony, a main forum, seven sub-forums, a new media forum, a television forum, and a closing ceremony. Additionally, there will be a prayer service and a Buddhist cultural exhibition.
In response to media inquiries, Ming Hai discussed Buddhism’s vital role in fostering a global community and promoting exchange between civilizations. He underscored that Buddhism has significant value in enhancing global communication and mutual appreciation.
Bao Xiuying, Director of the Zhejiang Provincial Ethnic and Religious Affairs Committee and Secretary of the organizing committee of the forum, highlighted Zhejiang’s strategic location along the southeastern coast, serving as a critical junction for the Maritime Silk Road and as a historical link between the Buddhist communities of China, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia. She emphasized the opportunity to harness Zhejiang’s resources to enhance exchanges and mutual understanding through this forum.
Moreover, Ming Hai announced that there will be a sub-forum dedicated to the digital compilation of Buddhist texts, advocating for a collaborative mechanism to translate and study Buddhist scriptures across different languages, undertake research on existing texts, and promote systematic digitization and sharing of these works. The aim is to establish new pathways and goals for international Buddhist cultural exchange and cooperation based on genuine dialogue, equal communication, and open collaboration.
