Buddhist masters call for more exchanges and mutual learning

(From L to R) Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, Master Yinshun and Qi Xuchun, vice chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, attend Saturday's roundtable. Liu Xudong

Buddhist masters from 16 countries and regions reached a consensus at the 2019 South China Sea Buddhism Shenzhen Roundtable held in Shenzhen on Saturday, calling on the Buddhist communities in the South China Sea region to enhance exchanges and mutual learning, so as to build a Buddhist community with a shared development and future, and to safeguard peace and stability in the region.

Hosted by Buddhist Association of Shenzhen and Hongfa Temple, the roundtable was attended by Qi Xuchun, vice chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, Lin Jie, a member of the standing committee of the Shenzhen Municipal Committee of the CPC and head of the United Front Work Department of Shenzhen, former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, Yin Shun, vice president of Buddhist Association of China and abbot of Hongfa Temple, as well as other Buddhist and political leaders.

Themed “Mutual Learning for Shared Development,” this year’s roundtable serves as a platform for leaders from different circles and experts and scholars to discuss the role of Buddhism in addressing pressing issues facing the world.

In his opening speech, Qi said it’s of great significance to hold the roundtable when the Central Government recently unveiled a guideline on supporting Shenzhen in building a pilot demonstration area of socialism with Chinese characteristics. He hopes that Buddhist communities of all countries can make concerted efforts to promote lasting peace and common prosperity for the South China Sea region and greater contributions to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Master Yin Shun raised six proposals in his keynote speech, calling on Buddhist leaders in the region to enhance communication and take joint actions to tackle challenges and build a Buddhist community of a shared future. His proposals were agreed upon by other Buddhist masters who signed an MOU at the roundtable.

According to the MOU, the Buddhist communities in the South China Sea region will strengthen cooperation and innovative development, work hand-in-hand compiling histories of Buddhism, organize study tours to Buddhist academies and promote exchanges to foster Buddhist talents.

This year's roundtable launched the education forum and youth forum for the first time. Master Yin Shun said the purpose was to make Buddhism younger, more open and tolerant, and more inclusive.

Initiated by master Yin Shun in 2016, the roundtable has entered its fourth year and has achieved fruitful results. According to Yin Shun, the secretariat, a foundation and institute dedicated to the roundtable have been established and Nanhai Buddhist College has begun enrollment. Other efforts are being implemented in an orderly manner.