PM Modi Highlights 2000-Year Cultural Connection Between India and Thailand

Bangkok, Feb 14 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday underscored the profound cultural connections between India and Thailand that span more than 2000 years, highlighting the crucial role of Asian traditions in nurturing peace and harmony.

Expressing his joy that SAMVAD – the Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative for Conflict Avoidance and Environmental Consciousness is taking place in Thailand, PM Modi commended the nation’s rich culture, history, and heritage.

"Thailand exemplifies the beauty of Asia's philosophical and spiritual traditions," he remarked.

He pointed out that the concept of SAMVAD was initiated in 2015 during discussions with former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Since then, the initiative has traversed numerous countries, fostering dialogues, debates, and enhancing mutual understanding.

PM Modi emphasized the longstanding cultural ties between the two nations, which trace back over 2000 years. "The Ramayan and Ramakien link us, and our shared veneration for Bhagwan Buddha brings us together. Last year, when we sent sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha, billions of devotees paid homage," he shared.

He also discussed how India's Act East policy aligns with Thailand's Act West policy, fostering shared growth and prosperity.

Focusing on the theme of SAMVAD, PM Modi asserted that the Asian Century is not solely about economic advancement but also about social values.

He remarked, "The teachings of Bhagwan Buddha can guide the world towards a peaceful and progressive era. His wisdom possesses the potential to steer us towards a human-centric future."

Addressing conflict issues, PM Modi stated, "One of the core themes of SAMVAD is conflict avoidance. Often, conflicts arise from the belief that only our perspective is correct while all others are erroneous. Bhagwan Buddha provides insights into this matter."

He elaborated, "Another source of conflict is viewing others as fundamentally different from ourselves. Differences create distance, which can escalate into discord. Everyone fears pain and death. By acknowledging our similarities, we can prevent harm and violence."

PM Modi also addressed the environmental crisis, stating: "Today, conflicts extend beyond human beings and nations. Humanity increasingly finds itself at odds with nature. This has precipitated an environmental crisis that jeopardizes our planet. The solution lies in Asia's shared traditions, grounded in the principle of Dhamma. Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism, and other Asian traditions emphasize living in harmony with nature. We see ourselves not as separate from nature but as an integral part of it."

He reiterated India’s dedication to advancing Buddhist heritage, referencing recent achievements. "Recently, the first Asian Buddhist Summit occurred in India under the theme, ‘The Role of Buddhadhamma in Strengthening Asia'. Previously, India hosted the inaugural Global Buddhist Summit. I took pride in laying the foundation stone for the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage at Lumbini, Nepal. India has also played a role in constructing the Lumbini Museum," he noted.

PM Modi also reflected on the resurgence of Nalanda University.

"One of the greatest universities in history was obliterated centuries ago due to conflict. However, we have demonstrated resilience by reviving it as a learning center. With Bhagwan Buddha's blessings, I believe Nalanda University will reclaim its former glory."

The fourth edition of SAMVAD is taking place in Thailand from February 14 to 17.

This flagship outreach initiative, launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the late Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, is led and organized by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in India, with the Japan Foundation as a prominent partner.