India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, P. Harish, emphasized the enduring relevance of Buddha’s principle of the middle path amid today’s global uncertainty during the International Day of Vesak commemoration.

Speaking at the UN’s Economic and Social Council chamber, Harish said Buddha’s teachings inspire compassion and unity. “The principle of moderation, or the middle path, remains more relevant today than ever before,” he said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed these sentiments, highlighting compassion and tolerance as values that align with the UN’s mission.

Harish also noted India’s historic ties with Buddhism and recounted PM Modi’s recent visits to Buddhist shrines in Thailand and Sri Lanka, underscoring shared civilisational bonds.

India will also host a UN event titled Teachings of Gautama Buddha – A Path to Internal and Global Peace on Thursday.