By Tsering Tsomo
HIROSHIMA, Japan November 2 – The 2-day Hiroshima International Peace Summit closed Wednesday evening with a joint statement that endorsed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message of peace and non-violence. Fellow Nobel Peace Prize laureates Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Ms. Betty Williams signed the statement with the Dalai Lama.
The statement affirmed that compassion, human rights, forgiveness, cooperation, care and education should not be restricted to only one group, city or nation but for all. It stated that acceptance of global responsibility and interdependence was essential not only for one’s own well-being but also for other’s benefit.
“Destruction of your neighbour and even your enemy is destruction of yourself” was the essence of the message sent by the three Nobel Peace laureates from Hiroshima
The exile Tibetan leader appealed for overcoming differences and national borders saying dialogue and reconciliation were keys to solving conflicts. When asked what he expected from the people of Hiroshima in contributing to peace, he said Japan could help alleviate sufferings in the world by helping the poor in undeveloped countries.
“A combination of material and mental development is necessary for a happy and peaceful life. Japan with its ancient tradition, modern technology and environmental consciousness has the potential to contribute much to the world”.
The Dalai Lama also attended a reception party hosted in honour of the three Nobel laureates at Riga Royal Hotel in Hiroshima.
In the evening, he visited Hiroshima Peace Park, situated near ground zero of A-Bomb Dome and offered prayers with Archbishop Tutu and Ms. Betty Williams.
