(KPL) In a congratulatory message to the gathering, held in Vientiane from October 25–30, the President praised previous rounds of the conference for their contributions to society and commended Buddhist leaders and organisers for their continued efforts to promote Buddhist teachings.

On behalf of the Lao people of all ethnic groups and in his personal capacity, President Thongloun extended his congratulations to Buddhist leaders, senior monks, scholars and delegates attending the international event.

He expressed hope that the roundtable would further strengthen solidarity and cooperation among participating countries and contribute to peace and well-being for humanity in line with Buddhist teachings. He also wished all participants good health and success in their discussions.

Laos is co-hosting the six-day event at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane, bringing together around 450 Buddhist leaders, senior monks, scholars and other delegates from 31 countries and international organisations.

The conference is jointly organised by the Lao Buddhist Fellowship Organization, the Shenzhen Buddhist Association and Hongfa Temple in Shenzhen, China, under the theme “Shared Origin, Shared Aspiration: Towards Comprehensive Prosperity and Civilisation”.

The programme includes two specialised forums — the Nanhai Buddhism Youth Roundtable Forum and the Nanhai Buddhism Education Roundtable Forum — to encourage knowledge-sharing and strengthen cooperation among Buddhist communities.

Participants are also scheduled to visit religious, cultural and historical sites in Vientiane and Luang Prabang Province to learn more about Laos’ Buddhist traditions and cultural heritage.

The gathering coincides with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and China, highlighting the longstanding friendship and cultural ties between the two countries.

KPL