India, China Emphasise Shared Cultural History at SCO’s ‘Shared Buddhist Heritage’ Meet

The ‘Shared Buddhist Heritage’ international conference, organized under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), commenced on Tuesday and will run for two days. The conference centers on India’s historic and cultural ties with the SCO member countries. During the event, esteemed Chinese researcher Dr. S Zhao delivered a presentation highlighting the origin and widespread influence of Buddhism, which originated in India and spread across the globe.

“Buddhism cultivated its roots starting from India to Central Asia, middle-east & China. In China where I am researching, I can see many relics related to Indian Culture…& they are looking forward to spreading over the world,” Dr. S Zhao said.  Furthermore, he stated that “India and China share a rich historical past that unites them. This conference serves as a message that both countries are coming together in all aspects and will continue to advance this peaceful and cultural heritage.”

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, speaking at the event, declared that this is India’s first such meeting, and the Indian government intends to propose conducting similar events regularly.

Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs, emphasized the significance of Lord Buddha’s association with India and the link that India has with the rest of the world.

She noted, “The SCO is an international organization that comprises eight nations. When you visit locations like Sarnath, Kushinagar, or other sites in India where Lord Buddha has left his mark, you will come across monasteries, temples, stupas, and other precious heritage sites.”