The Sri Lanka Embassy in Washington DC hosted a preparatory meeting aimed at commemorating this year’s 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 year’s White House Vesak celebration with significant Buddhist communities convened at the official residence of Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe to discuss on the official Vesak Celebration at the White House this year.
In his welcome address, Ambassador Samarasinghe 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 year’s 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 Wangmo Dixey endorsed Ambassador Samarasinghe's proposal. 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 Erika Moritsugu who led the senior White House delegation thanked Ambassador Samarasinghe for his leadership in bringing the 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.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington D.C.
11 March 2024
