During the recent meeting of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP) in New Delhi, General Secretary Byambajav Khunkhur emphasized that the decision regarding the next Dalai Lama rests solely with the current Dalai Lama. This statement, reported by ANI News on January 19, 2024, clarifies the ABCP’s stance on the issue amidst global curiosity.
ABCP’s Stand on Dalai Lama’s Successor
Responding to a question about the next Dalai Lama potentially being from Mongolia, the ABCP General Secretary stated that the ABCP does not interfere in matters concerning His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He affirmed that such decisions are for the Dalai Lama himself to decide.
Highlights of the 12th General Assembly of ABCP
The 12th General Assembly of the ABCP, which was held in New Delhi, focused on global peace. The leader described the Delhi declaration, which calls for an end to wars and violence worldwide, as the event’s most significant outcome.
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The assembly also marked the expansion of the ABCP, now including 14 countries and 19 national centers, with Bhutan being the newest member.
Universal Day of Compassions and Future Plans
The assembly unanimously agreed to celebrate July 6, the birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama, as the “Universal Day of Compassions”. The ABCP Deputy Secretary General, Sonam Wangchuk, stressed that the decision on the next Dalai Lama is a spiritual issue and should be decided only by the Dalai Lama or his designated representatives.
ABCP’s Continuous Efforts for Peace
The ABCP has been holding its general assembly every four years since 1970 in different countries. This year’s assembly in New Delhi aimed to strengthen peace efforts globally and was the second time the event was held in India’s capital. The assembly serves as a platform for Buddhist leaders from Asia to contribute to world peace.
The Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace, established in 1969, represents the collective aspirations of Asian Buddhists to foster peace, social and economic progress, justice, and human dignity. The conference’s activities and declarations play a vital role in addressing contemporary global challenges and promoting peace.
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