On October 10th, a meeting of the organizing committee for the 3rd International Buddhist Forum took place in Elista.
The Central Spiritual Administration of Buddhists is actively involved in organizing the forum, in collaboration with Central Khurul of Kalmykia, Foundation for Promotion of Buddhist Education and Research, Roscongress Foundation, buddhist communities, and many other partners.
The Chief Advisor of the Department for Cooperation with Religious Organizations of the Presidential Administration, Alexander Terentyev, spoke about the strong support provided to the forum’s organizing committee by the head of state.
The initiative is supported by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, who stated:
“Buddhism, its culture, and traditions have had a significant influence on our country’s development, playing a truly unique role in shaping a united and cohesive nation. Buddhism have become a high spiritual and moral guide for hundreds of thousands of people.”
The event was chaired by the Head of Kalmykia, Batu Khasikov. Participants of the meeting discussed preparations and goals for the upcoming conference.
“The mission of the forum is to conceive and create practical projects that, on collaborative terms, will aid in the development of all Buddhist countries—in religion, culture, economy, and other significant sectors. We must demonstrate openness and readiness for cooperation. I am confident that in addressing these tasks, we will make a substantial contribution to strengthening Russia’s authority in Buddhist countries,” noted the head of the republic.
The Chairman of the Central Spiritual Administration of Buddhists, Geshe Yonten, presented his proposals for the forum’s concept:
“The main topic for discussion we propose is ‘The Buddhist World in the New Millennium.’ Buddhism has existed for over 2,500 years, and in the third millennium, it faces new tasks and challenges that require discussion at the level of the entire Buddhist community. For example, the development of new technologies, artificial intelligence, and other aspects of modernity. It is important for Buddhists to understand whether these changes pose a threat or, on the contrary, can become a source of benefit in practice. Perhaps someone already has positive experiences integrating modern technologies into Buddhist practice, and we would be interested in exchanging opinions.
Other important topics for discussion include monastic life, modern Buddhist education, the interaction between Buddhism and science, Buddhist diplomacy, economics, and many others. All of these issues are relevant to the Buddhist world as a whole. Russian Federation, considering many factors, is a suitable platform for bringing Buddhists together to discuss and seek solutions to common challenges.”
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