Kathmandu, May 12 – Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Monday expressed gratitude to India and Pakistan for agreeing to halt all military actions, stating that Lord Buddha's message of peace and non-violence holds renewed importance in today’s world marked by conflict.
Speaking at an event commemorating the 2569th Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini, the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha, Oli reflected on the recent de-escalation between India and Pakistan.
"A few days ago in our neighbourhood, tensions had escalated between India and Pakistan, but now the conflict has ceased," Oli remarked. "I want to thank both India and Pakistan for the same."
He further emphasized that he had consistently advocated for restraint, warning against the escalation of tensions. “The conflict should not turn into a war,” he said, noting that he had engaged in dialogue with both nations.
The ceasefire comes in the wake of India's Operation Sindoor, a military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepalese citizen. On Saturday, both India and Pakistan agreed to cease all hostilities across land, air, and sea borders, with immediate effect.
In his address, Oli underscored the global relevance of Buddha’s doctrine in promoting peace and humanity. "Lord Buddha's teachings and his message of peace and non-violence are more relevant today at a time when we are facing conflicts around us," he said.
The Buddha Jayanti celebration in Lumbini saw a large gathering of monks, scholars, political leaders, students, and peace advocates. Oli offered prayers at the idol of Buddha as part of the ceremonial observance.
In Kathmandu, people marked Buddha Purnima with prayers at the Swayambhunath and Boudhanath stupas, while the Gyanmala Bhajan group held a devotional music programme dedicated to Lord Buddha.