Click to Share this Article Message of the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand Somdej Phra Sangharaj Sakol Mahasanghaparinayok Message of the President of IABU/ICDV The Most Venerable Prof. Dr. Dharmakosajarn Rector Messages of The President of the Privy Council and Statesman Prem Tinsulanonda Messages of Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand Yingluck Shinawatra Messages of Prime Minister of Australia The Honourable Julia Gillard Message of The Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon Message of the Director-General of UNESCO Irina Bokova Message of Sangha Supreme Council Messages of Council of Ministers Ambassador Messages Messages of Very Important Person Messages of Organization

Message from The Honourable Julia Gillard Prime Minister of Australia It is with great pleasure that I send my best wishes to you all in Bangkok, Thailand for the 9th International Conference and Celebrations of the United Nations Day of Vesak. The United Nations Day of Vesak recognizes the importance of Vesak to Buddhist communities globally. It is significant that communities around the world celebrate this day, demonstrating that we are all part of a global village. Buddhism has a strong history in Australia and many of our cultural groups commemorate Vesak and engage the broader non-Buddhist community in its celebrations. This helps create a vibrant, understanding and multi-cultural society in Australia. Vesak is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the contribution of Buddhist thought to culture and society. This year's conference program provides a wonderful opportunity for participants to learn more about Buddhism and its potential to affect humanity positively. I hope that all participating have an inspiring and uplifting time.