UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has stressed the importance of acts of compassion for the less fortunate if the world is to overcome most of the challenges facing humanity. He said world leaders must work together to foster these principles in order to ensure better life

Ban said this in a message to millions worldwide who today marked Vesak, the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha, a God of merchandise among the Hindu.

He said challenges of reducing poverty and hunger, reversing environmental decline, avoiding catastrophic climate change and creating a world of freedom, peace and justice for all required showing regard for others.

“If we follow the true spirit of Buddhism – or any of the other major religions of the world – all these noble goals can be achieved,” a press statement from the UN quoted Ban as saying.

He noted that Vesak is a time for all Buddhists to reflect on the fundamental values of tolerance, compassion and service to humanity that are embodied in the Buddha’s life and teachings.

Budha

Ban said these values are echoed in the UN Charter, a promise by Member States to work in harmony for a world where women and men can thrive and prosper in peace and dignity.

The Secretary-General said this year’s theme for the Day – “Global Recovery: the Buddhist Perspective” – speaks to the heart of global concerns at a time of multiple crises.

“When the economic and financial crisis hit, the poor suffered first and worst. They will take longest to recover,” he stated.