'Call for initiative for broader national unity'

Kathmandu, May 23: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has wished all Nepali sisters and brothers at home and abroad for their happiness, peace and prosperity on the occasion of 2568th birth anniversary of world's peace apostle Gautam Buddha.    

In a message of best wishes on the occasion today, she said the relevance of the philosophy of peace and non-violence propounded by Gautam Buddha has further increased in the contemporary world.    

Also, the former President called for all to come forward for broader national unity.    

In her message, she recalled that the United Nations has been celebrating Buddha Jayanti as the International Day in the name of 'Baishakh Day' since 1999, recognizing the principles and philosophies propounded by Nepal's luminary, Gautam Buddha, about friendship, compassion and non-violence.    

The former President expressed the view that peace, coexistence, tolerance and mutual respect among every person, society and the world community would be further strengthened if Buddha's teachings could be followed in actions. (RSS)