2013 VESAK DAY CELEBRATIONS
It is with great pleasure that I send my best wishes to everyone celebrating Vesak across Australia this year.
Vesak is of global importance to the Buddhist community as it gathers to commemorate Gautama Buddha and contemplate his message of compassion and goodwill.
This occasion also offers a time for reflection and the opportunity for all to learn from the teachings of equality, respect and understanding that are such a rich part of Buddhism.
The world is increasingly interdependent and complex, and we are more connected to one another than at any point in history. It is increasingly important that tolerance, non-violence and diligence – Buddhist values – are demonstrated in all of our relationships within local and global communities.
In Australia, the Buddhist community has done much to shape the strong and resilient multicultural nation we enjoy today; a nation that celebrates all
backgrounds, cultures, customs and religions and ties our society with the region and world around us.
With these thoughts in mind I send my warmest regards to all those celebrating Vesak and may this be a time of peace and blessing for you all.
The Honourable Julia Gillard
Prime Minister of Australia