By TRN Online, Kathmandu, Oct 13: The Lumbini-Kapilvastu Global Campaign, Belgium (LKGCB) its 9th General Assembly in Herent, Belgium.

The event brought together peace advocates, diplomats, cultural leaders, and community organizations from across Europe to celebrate unity, reflect on progress, and chart a bold path forward.

The General Assembly held on October 11 elected Dr. Rajendra Bari as President of LKGCB for a second term, according to a press note by the LKGCB.

The assembly opened with a warm welcome by Rashmi Niroula, General Secretary of LKGCB, followed by a guided mindfulness session and group photo. Mahendra Bhattarai, Secretary of LKGCB, set the tone with a message of solidarity and purpose, read the note.

A serene mindfulness session was conducted by the Jeevan Vigyan Organization, led by Sabita Dahal. Through guided breathing and meditation techniques, participants practiced presence and emotional clarity. The session emphasized mental well-being as a foundation for peaceful living and effective leadership. Many attendees shared that the experience helped them feel more centered and energized for the day’s events.

In his keynote address, Dr. Bari presented a compelling overview of LKGCB’s work, centered around three pillars: Peace and Global Harmony, Planet and People and Partnerships and Collaborations

He emphasized the urgent need to address the global economic cost of violence, which reached $19.1 trillion USD in 2023, or approximately $2,380 USD per person. His message was clear: peace is not only a moral imperative but an economic necessity.

A major milestone announced during the 9th General Assembly was LKGCB’s official membership in the International Peace Bureau (IPB)—one of the world’s oldest and most respected peace federations. This affiliation marks a significant step forward in LKGCB’s mission to amplify its voice on the global stage and deepen its collaboration with like-minded organizations committed to nonviolence, disarmament, and sustainable peace, read the press note.

As a member of IPB, LKGCB now joins a network of over 300 peace organizations worldwide, gaining access to shared resources, joint campaigns, and international platforms for advocacy. This partnership strengthens LKGCB’s ability to promote the legacy of Lumbini and the teachings of Buddha as universal tools for conflict resolution and intercultural understanding.

Dr. Rajendra Bari emphasized that this membership is not just symbolic—it’s strategic. “To build lasting peace, we must work together across borders, across sectors, and across ideologies,” he said. “Joining IPB allows us to do exactly that.”

The closing segment of the first session featured inspiring remarks from distinguished guests who underscored the importance of cultural inclusion, global peace, and the role of diaspora communities in shaping a better future.

Dirk Vansina, Deputy Mayor of Leuven Municipality, delivered a heartfelt address celebrating the Nepalese diaspora’s vibrant presence in Leuven. He emphasized that “there is hope to build a better society when communities come together in solidarity.” Mr. Vansina praised the inclusivity and cultural richness that the Nepalese community brings to the city, noting that Leuven proudly welcomes their traditions, values, and contributions. His message reinforced the city’s commitment to diversity and its recognition of grassroots peace movements like LKGCB as vital to social cohesion.

Sewa Lamsal, Ambassador of Nepal to BENELUX and the EU, delivered a powerful and affirming speech. She highlighted the global significance of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, as a timeless symbol of peace and enlightenment. Ambassador Lamsal emphasized that Buddha’s message of compassion and nonviolence transcends borders and remains deeply relevant in today’s world. She commended LKGCB for its tireless efforts in promoting Nepal’s cultural heritage and fostering international dialogue. In closing, she extended her full support to the campaign, encouraging continued collaboration and expressing pride in the Nepalese community’s role in advancing peace and unity abroad.

These remarks added a diplomatic and civic dimension to the assembly, affirming that LKGCB’s mission resonates not only within communities but also at the highest levels of local and international leadership.

Many expressed admiration for LKGCB’s mission and acknowledged the importance of the assembly in promoting peace, cultural understanding, and global collaboration.

Their thoughtful gestures served as a reminder that even when physically apart, the spirit of unity and shared purpose continues to bind the global community together. LKGCB remains grateful for their kind words and looks forward to welcoming them in future gatherings.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Rajendra Bari expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their presence, ideas, and energy. He reflected on the day’s events as a powerful testament to the strength of unity across backgrounds, organizations, and cultures. Dr. Bari emphasized that LKGCB’s achievements are rooted in collaboration—every project, act of kindness, and partnership has created ripples of positive change.

He reminded attendees that the global challenges of peace, sustainability, and inclusion demand deeper cooperation, active listening, and bold innovation. Dr. Bari urged everyone to leave inspired not only by what has been achieved, but by the limitless potential of collective action.

“Let’s continue to build bridges, support one another, and expand our impact—locally and globally,” he affirmed. His message resonated as a call to action: to keep striving for a more peaceful, just, and compassionate world—together.

At the end, the 9th General Assembly has unanimously endorsed the new Executive Board comprised of 13 members under the leadership of Dr Rajendra Bari. LKGCB proudly introduced 5 new executive board members: Their diverse backgrounds and expertise are expected to strengthen the organization’s capacity and outreach.

The list of new executive board members are given below.

President– Dr Rajendra Bari

Senior Vice-President – Ms Yogita Thapa

Vice-President – Ms Rashmi Niroula

General Secretary – Mr Mahendra Bhattarai

Secretary – Dr Raju Shrivastav

Treasurer – Ms Maiya Nepal

Board Member – Deepak Raut

Board Member – Rubina Sharma

Board Member – Sudip Tiwari

Board Member – Prakash Shrestha

Board Member – Aiestha Thapa

Board Member – Deepsun Uprety

For more information, visit www.lkgcb.be