Seven Buddhist monks, led by Vietnamese monk Pannakara Thera arrived in the country yesterday morning (21) to take part in the ‘Walk for Peace’ in Sri Lanka. The rescue dog Aloka has also arrived along with the delegation. 

The international Walk for Peace programme is scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka until 28 April, under State patronage. The procession, led by Pannakara Thera along with the Buddhist clergy, will carry a Bodhi sapling obtained from the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.

A large number of State and private institutions, including the Presidential Secretariat, the Clean Sri Lanka programme, the Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Ministry, the Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry, the Tri-Forces and the Police, as well as the National Design Centre, are extending support for the peace walk. 

During the event, Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage as well as traditional crafts and cultural features are expected to be showcased to the public.

President Dissanayake has expressed his full support for the ‘Walk for Peace’ initiative, which officially commenced in Sri Lanka yesterday. In a post shared on the social media platform X, the President stated, 

“I am honoured to support the ‘Walk for Peace’ journey across Sri Lanka, which commenced yesterday, promoting mindfulness, loving-kindness, unity, and harmony among all people.” Highlighting the significance of the journey, which carries the relics of the Buddha and a Bodhi tree sapling from Dambulla across the island, the President added, “As this walk sets out from Dambulla and travels across our island, carrying the relics of the Buddha and a Bodhi tree sapling, I invite all Sri Lankans to reflect on the enduring values of peace and compassion that define our heritage.” Concluding his message, President Dissanayake expressed his hope that this spiritual initiative would help strengthen national unity and convey a profound message of peace to the global community.

Also, the Veterinary Association has announced that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure the health and safety of Aloka, the rescue dog arriving in Sri Lanka to participate in the peace march titled ‘Walk for Peace.’ The Association stated that a 24-hour ambulance service, essential medicines, and dedicated medical teams have been deployed for ‘Aloka’. They further noted that a specialised emergency response team has also been placed on standby. The Association highlighted that the highest level of protection will be provided for Aloka.