Bangkok: Thailand and Cambodia join hands to organize activities to promote Buddhism in both countries, fostering ASEAN relations on the occasion of Visakha Bucha Day, a significant international day.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaipol Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, inaugurated the Buddhism Promotion Week on the occasion of Visakha Bucha Day and ASEAN Atthami Bucha Day. The event, held in Sa Kaeo Province at Wat Luang Aran and in Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia, aims to strengthen relations between ASEAN countries through the Buddhist dimension. Attendees included Mr. Parinya Bodhisattva, Governor of Sa Kaeo Province, officials from the Department of Religious Affairs, and the media.
Mr. Chaipol Suk-iam emphasized that the activities organized by the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, and the Office of Cultural Affairs of Sa Kaeo Province aim to promote arts and culture in the Buddhist dimension. The events, held from May 7-8, 2025, at Wat Luang Aranya, Sa Kaeo Province, and Wat Dong Aran, Cambodia, use Buddhist festival activities as a medium to foster good relations among ASEAN countries. The events include ASEAN arts and culture performances, product demonstration booths, exhibitions, and religious ceremonies, with an emphasis on exchanging knowledge on religion, arts, and culture.
The Director-General highlighted that the recognition of Visakha Bucha Day by the United Nations as an important international Buddhist day, along with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Cambodia, provides an opportunity to preserve traditions and promote morality and ethics in society. The activities encourage Buddhists to apply religious principles in daily life and honor the Buddha through various practices.
In addition to these activities, Sa Kaeo Province is home to the Sadok Kok Thom Historical Park, a historical site located near the Thai-Cambodian border. The park, known for its Khmer architectural style, along with other natural attractions like Pang Sida National Park and Ta Phraya National Park, highlights the cultural richness of the region. The role of religion in politics, society, and international relations is underscored as a strategy for building international relations and promoting the overall progress of the country, ensuring that Buddhism remains integral to Thai society.
