Islamabad, April 10, 2026: The Sri Lanka High Commission in Pakistan, in coordination with several diplomatic missions representing countries with Buddhist heritage, is planning a commemorative programme to mark Vesak on May 1.
The third preparatory meeting of the organizing committee was recently hosted by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Fred Senevirathne, at his official residence in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by ambassadors and representatives from the missions of Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Nepal, who assured their full support to make the initiative a success.
The commemorative programme will be held at the historic Dharmarajika Stupa and the Taxila Museum, located in the ancient Gandhara region. The event will feature Buddhist religious observances at Dharmarajika and a religious conference at the Taxila Museum.
High-level representatives of the Government of Pakistan, along with devotees from participating countries, are expected to attend the celebrations. The High Commission will also coordinate the visit of a venerable Buddhist monk from Sri Lanka to deliver a Dhamma sermon and provide spiritual leadership for the programme.
The initiative highlights Pakistan’s rich Buddhist heritage and underscores the role of cultural and spiritual diplomacy in strengthening ties among like-minded nations. It also reflects a shared commitment to promoting interfaith harmony and preserving the Gandhara civilization’s legacy.
Vesak, observed worldwide, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha and is considered one of the most significant festivals in Buddhism.
