“Vesak which epitomizes the Buddha’s Birth, Enlightenment and Passing Away heralds peace and tranquillity of mind. The guidance of the Dhamma is of cardinal importance to strengthen national unity and reconciliation in Sri Lanka.
“Those who have moulded their lives according to Buddhism, live an exemplary life of compassion and loving-kindness. Their lives give credence to religious and spiritual co-existence and at present this country is in dire need of such people.
“Today, we see a section of the people who have taken exception to the supreme teachings of the Buddha indulge in rancour and hatred to realise their personal ambitions by exploiting Buddhism.
“In this Vesak week, I wish those who sully the image of Sri Lanka in their racist and hollow patriotic outbursts, free themselves from that very sin.
I believe it should also be our shared view.
“I wish the world community should be able, as true Buddhists, to purify their spiritual lives through dana, sila and bhavana adding lustre to the world.”