The annual event began in 1999 when the UN recognized an international Vesak Day to acknowledge the contribution Buddhism has made to spiritual life, peace, cooperation, and development.

At this year’s event, Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga, head of the permanent Vietnam Mission to the UN, said Vesak Day not only celebrates Buddha’s birthday, but also honors Buddhist philosophy. She said Buddhism has helped to create the core values of Vietnamese people since it was introduced 2000 years ago, and added that harmony between Buddhism and other religions has always been promoted in Vietnam.