Vientiane:The 11th Nanhai Buddhism Roundtable concluded in Vientiane, marking the end of a two-day event held from October 28-29 under the theme 'Same Origin, Shared Aspiration, Towards Comprehensive Civilization and Prosperity.' The event was co-hosted by the Lao Buddhist Fellowship Organization (LBFO), in coordination with relevant Lao agencies, the Shenzhen Buddhist Association, and Hongfa Temple of China.

According to Lao News Agency, the closing briefing on October 29 featured Most Venerable Damlong Phimmachack, Vice President of the LBFO Central Committee and Head of its International Sangha Affairs Commission, who outlined the main outcomes and cooperation initiatives agreed upon during the roundtable.

Participants at the roundtable discussed the application of Buddhist teachings to contemporary challenges, focusing on promoting harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. They also emphasized the importance of strengthening exchanges among the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions while respecting their distinct practices and beliefs.

The roundtable highlighted the potential use of digital media and artificial intelligence (AI) to support the digitization of Buddhist scriptures and classical texts. Additionally, discussions included expanding charitable activities under the 'Silk Road Light and Compassion Campaign,' which covers educational scholarships, medical assistance, disaster recovery, and marine environmental protection.

In terms of monastic education, a proposed '2+2' training framework was outlined, where participants would study for two years in their home countries followed by two years in China. The BenHuan Academy was identified as a center for international monastic education, while the Chinese Temple in Nepal was noted as a venue for cross-cultural exchanges.

Other initiatives discussed included establishing Nanhai Buddhist News through Hongfa Dhamma Magazine to disseminate information on Buddhist developments across participating countries and strengthening the permanent secretariat to coordinate the implementation of the roundtable's decisions.

The Lao delegation reaffirmed the Lao PDR's commitment to respecting freedom of belief, ensuring that religious activities are conducted in accordance with the law, and promoting religious unity to support national development.

The roundtable also served as an opportunity to strengthen cultural and religious ties among participating countries, particularly as Laos and China approach the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026.