Strengthening Asian Bonds: The inaugural Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) is being held in New Delhi on November 5-6, 2024, aiming to foster unity and cooperation among Asian nations through the shared values of Buddhism.
India’s Act East Policy: The summit reflects India’s Act East Policy, which emphasizes collective and inclusive development in Asia, with Buddhist principles as a guiding force.
Diverse Participation: The event brings together Buddhist leaders, scholars, and practitioners from various traditions across Asia to engage in dialogue and address contemporary challenges.
Buddhism’s Unifying Role: The summit highlights the historical and cultural significance of Buddhism in fostering a common outlook on life and promoting spiritual unity across Asia.
Soft Power Diplomacy: India utilizes Buddhism as a tool for soft power projection, showcasing its rich Buddhist heritage and promoting its role as a bridge connecting different Asian cultures.
Key Themes: Discussions will cover various topics, including Buddhist art, heritage, the dissemination of Buddhist teachings, the role of relics, and the relevance of Buddhist philosophy in the 21st century.
Special Exhibition: A dedicated exhibition titled “India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) connecting Asia” will showcase India’s historical and contemporary contributions to Buddhism across the continent.