Not only has the world experienced numerous wars, but nations and peoples have experienced many kinds of immoral pressures and intimidation. Social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom have, for many nations, been an ever-receding mirage. It is clear that these noble aspirations need some backing, some stiffening, in their implementation. For us in this hall today, there can be no hesitation or doubt that this must come from the timeless message of the Samma Sambuddha. I would like to quote in this connection from the Emperor Asoka, who, as you know, underwent a radical change of heart through contact with the Dhamma.
Buddhist philosophy contains much more of relevance to statesmen.
In the past decade, the observance of Human Rights in this country has been a source of great concern and debate, both within the country and in international for a. From the religious angle, it is possible to state that in this Declaration lie enshrined certain values and norms emphasized by the major religions of the world. Though not directly expressed, the basic principles of the Declaration are supported and reinforced by these religious traditions, and among them the contribution of the Buddhist tradition, to say the least, is quite outstanding. I would now like to pass on to a different topic, namely, what this Conference means, or should mean, for the future. I think I am right in saying that the Conference is unique in being the first inter-governmental Buddhist Conference convened by the Government of Sri Lanka.