India and Thailand share deep cultural ties spanning over 2000 years: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the deep cultural and spiritual ties between India and Thailand, which have flourished for over 2,000 years, during the fourth edition of SAMVAD – the Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative for Conflict Avoidance and Environmental Consciousness in Bangkok.

Expressing his appreciation for Thailand’s rich heritage, PM Modi described the country as a “beautiful example of Asia’s philosophical and spiritual traditions.” He noted that the idea of SAMVAD originated in 2015 during discussions with former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and has since fostered dialogue and understanding across multiple nations.

Deep cultural connections

PM Modi emphasized the strong cultural links between the two nations, citing the Ramayan and Thailand’s Ramakien as symbols of their shared traditions. He also highlighted their mutual reverence for Bhagwan Buddha, recalling that when India sent holy relics of Buddha last year, they were honored by billions of devotees.

Discussing diplomatic and economic cooperation, he pointed out how India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Thailand’s ‘Act West’ policy complement each other, driving mutual progress and prosperity.

The role of Asia in shaping the world

PM Modi stressed that the ‘Asian Century’ must be guided not only by economic growth but also by social and cultural values. He urged the world to seek wisdom in Bhagwan Buddha’s teachings for a peaceful and progressive future.

Addressing the root causes of conflict, he remarked:
“Conflicts often arise when one believes only their path is correct. Bhagwan Buddha’s insights help us overcome such divisions. Recognizing our shared humanity reduces discord and promotes harmony.”

A call for environmental harmony

PM Modi also touched upon the growing conflict between humanity and nature, which has led to severe environmental challenges. He emphasized that Hindu, Buddhist, and other Asian traditions teach coexistence with nature, viewing it as an integral part of human existence.

Promoting Buddhist heritage

PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to preserving Buddhist heritage, mentioning key milestones such as:

• Hosting the first Global Buddhist Summit
• Organizing the first Asian Buddhist Summit on the role of Buddhadhamma in strengthening Asia
• Laying the foundation stone for the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage in Lumbini, Nepal
• India’s contribution to the construction of the Lumbini Museum

He also spoke about the revival of Nalanda University, once a great center of learning destroyed centuries ago. “With the blessings of Bhagwan Buddha, Nalanda University will regain its lost glory,” he said.

SAMVAD: A global initiative for dialogue

The fourth edition of SAMVAD is being held in Thailand from February 14 to 17. This flagship initiative, launched in 2015 by PM Modi and the late Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, is led by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in India, with the Japan Foundation as a key partner.

PM Modi’s speech reinforced the shared cultural and spiritual heritage of India and Thailand, emphasizing their role in promoting global peace, environmental harmony, and deep-rooted traditions.