Strengthen-SL-Thailand Buddhist relations: Thai delegation

A delegation led by the Sangharaja of the Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, Venerable Phra Kru Ubon Wachirakun Thero, was on a six-day visit in the island early this month on the invitation of Lanka Bodhi Foundation. The visit which was symbolic of the religious, cultural and diplomatic ties between the two countries, also sought to strengthen the same through several Thai-Sri Lanka collaborations which the delegation tabled during the visit.

The delegation visited several Buddhist attractions in the country including Dalada Maligawa, Ruwanweliseya, Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya and Gangaramaya. The Thai priests also visited Damsetha Asapuwa in Warakapola and alms were offered by the residents of the area.

Among the others highlights of the delegation’s stay was a visit to the Parliament where a proposal to strengthen Buddhist relations between Thailand and Sri Lanka was presented by Ven. Avissawella Vaga Sri Vajira Wanshathissa Thero, the Chief Incumbent of the Deraniyagala Werupalla Sri Abhinavarama Viharaya. The proposal outlined several initiatives, including offering educational scholarships worth Rs. 1.25 million to 25 Sri Lankan Samanera monks, establishing a World Buddhist Center in Sri Lanka, encouraging more Thai tourists to visit Sri Lanka to boost the tourism sector, and organizing a Thai Vesak festival this year with the diplomatic support of the Sri Lankan government.

The Thailand delegation also participated in an observation tour of the Parliament. A group of monks led by Ven. Sohit Wattaya M. Pha Trukanpak Pong, Director of the Thai Buddhist Education College and a group of seela mathas who had temporarily entered the monastic life in Thailand, and officials from the Parliament participated in this event.