The sixth World Buddhist Forum wrapped up on October 17 in Xuedou Mountain, Ningbo, Zhejiang, with the theme “Walking Together in Shared Aspirations: Harmony and Coexistence.”
During the event, attendees engaged in deep discussions about the inclusive wisdom, spiritual essence, and teachings of Buddhism, as well as the preservation of Buddhist texts, social responsibilities, cultural arts, the concept of humanistic Buddhism, the Middle Way, and peace-building wisdom. Their aim was to explore the essence, significance, and contemporary relevance of Buddhist culture, contributing to the construction of a shared future for humanity. The President of the Chinese Buddhist Association, Zhengjue, expressed hope that the forum serves as a platform to pass on the spirit of compassion and wisdom in Buddhism, promote its peaceful teachings, and unite Buddhists worldwide along with all peace-loving individuals to work collaboratively for global development, cultural exchange, and the building of a shared human destiny.
The forum adopted the “Xuedou Mountain Declaration,” which calls for adherence to the precepts, diligent practice of the Three Studies, and promoting healthy transmission of Buddhism. It encouraged exchanges and learning among Buddhist classics across three major linguistic families to enhance harmony between humanity and nature; advanced the digitalization of Buddhist texts to enrich the treasure trove of human civilization; emphasized contemporary Buddhist thought and practice research, preservation of cultural heritage, and innovative development of Buddhist art; and fostered friendly exchanges in Buddhism to carry forward traditional Dharma relations while highlighting Buddhism’s positive role in constructing a shared future for humanity.
Held from October 15 to 17, the sixth World Buddhist Forum attracted approximately 800 representatives from the Buddhist community and scholars from 72 countries and regions. The forum received enthusiastic congratulatory letters from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, 26 countries and regions, and three international organizations. The event featured a main forum, breakout discussions, a new media forum, a television forum, and themed exhibitions on Buddhist culture.
