(VOVworld) – Thousands of Buddhists held a weekend joint prayer at Soewondo Air Force Base in Medan, North Sumatra, for peace and tolerance in Indonesia, amid rising religious tensions across the country.

More than 10.000 Buddhist followers in a parade in Jakarta on November 20 (Photo: VNA)

About 15,000 Buddhist followers, members of parliament, and local officials participated in the event. Themed “For my country”, the prayer called for the unity of all religions for a peaceful Indonesia that will enable national development. Following the joint prayer, Buddhists participated in a blood donation drive.