Religious and national leaders, along with scholars, underscored the teachings of non-violence and conflict avoidance found in Buddhism and Hinduism at the Global Hindu-Buddhist Initiative for Conflict Avoidance and Environmental Consciousness (Samvad IV). The event, held in Bangkok and Krabi from 14–17 February, was aimed at promoting dialogue on pressing global issues, including geopolitical conflicts and environmental degradation.
The conference, attended by delegates from Bhutan, India, Laos, Nepal, and Thailand , was hosted at the UN Convention Centre in Bangkok and organized by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in India, in collaboration with Bodhigaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU), and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).
In a video address to the conference, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the role of Buddhist principles in resolving conflicts. “One of the core themes of Samvad is conflict avoidance,” he said. “Often, conflicts arise from the belief that only our path is correct while all others are wrong. Bhagwan Buddha offers insight into this issue. . . . Some people cling to their own views and argue, seeing only one side as true. But multiple perspectives can exist on the same issue.” (The Tribune)
Modi stressed that extreme views often led to disputes, environmental crises, and other challenges, and urged world leaders to adopt the Middle Path, a fundamental Buddhist principle advocating moderation and balance in decision-making.
Modi added that conflicts today were not only between nations, but also between humanity and nature: “The answer to this challenge lies in the shared traditions of Asia, rooted in the principles of Dhamma. Hinduism, Buddhism, Shintoism, and other Asian traditions teach us to live in harmony with nature. We do not see ourselves as separate from nature but as a part of it.” (Khmer Times)
The conference also highlighted Hindu and Buddhist traditions that promote environmental sustainability. Modi referenced the concept of trusteeship, as advocated by Mahatma Gandhi, urging a responsible approach to using natural resources that considers future generations.
The secretary-general of the Bodhigaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, Supachai Veraphuchong, spoke on the significance of Dharma in Hinduism and Buddhism as guiding principles for ethical leadership and environmental consciousness.
“If we have the same goal with our good, clear spirits, we will not have any hidden agenda,” Veraphuchong said. “But politics can be a source of suffering as the goals in the field can be different from ours. But again, I strongly believe that all the politicians in the world have Dhamma deep inside their hearts.” (Khmer Times)
Veraphuchong suggested that Asian nations, particularly those in the Mekong River basin, as well as China, Japan, and South Korea, could lead a movement rooted in Buddhist principles to address global challenges. “No armed force is stronger than the Dhamma army,” he added. (Khmer Times)
The secretary of state at Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Khy Sovanratana, highlighted Cambodia’s post-conflict recovery as a successful application of the Buddhist principles of non-violence and reconciliation.
“The concept of Dharma-Dhamma provides a timeless framework for ethical living and harmonious coexistence,” Sovanratana stated. “In the Asian century of Dharma-Dhamma, we are called to integrate these profound teachings into our modern lives.” (Khmer Times)
Sovanratana detailed Cambodia’s Win-Win Policy, initiated by former prime minister Hun Sen, which helped to end decades of civil conflict: “By fostering national unity, the Win-Win Policy enabled Cambodia to transcend its divisive past and encouraged former enemies to cooperate in rebuilding the country.”
The policy, Sovanratana added, created stability that attracted foreign investment and aid, facilitating Cambodia’s economic recovery.
Venerable Kou Sopheap, vice-president of Buddhist Academic Studies in Cambodia, emphasized Buddhism’s role in maintaining peace in the country.
“As a great majority of the Cambodian people are Buddhist, they understand the spiritual values of forgiveness and compassion, which has helped prevent conflicts from arising,” Ven. Kou explained. “Buddha taught us to resolve disagreements peacefully rather than through violence to avoid damage.” (Khmer Times)
The Samvad IV conference reinforced the relevance of Buddhist and Hindu teachings in addressing modern challenges, particularly in fostering peace and environmental stewardship. As discussions continued, religious and national leaders stressed the importance of applying these ancient wisdom traditions to global policymaking.
See more
Buddha’s teachings solution to global issues: PM during SAMVAD programme (Business Standard)
Global religious leaders advocate Middle Path for peace, harmony (Khmer Times)
“SAMVAD highlights Asian century social values, not only economic values”: PM Modi (The Tribune)
