8th Buddhist-Christian Colloquium held in Phnom Penh

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CSC

A senior Vatican figure has called on Buddhists and Christians to deepen cooperation for peace, highlighting shared values that can help address today’s global challenges.

 

Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, made the remarks at the 8th Buddhist-Christian Colloquium held in Phnom Penh. The event, themed “Working Together for Peace through Reconciliation and Resilience”, brought together religious leaders committed to confronting issues such as conflict, poverty, and environmental degradation.

 

“Reconciliation and resilience are deeply rooted in both Buddhism and Christianity,” said Cardinal Koovakad. “They form the foundation for building peace and healing all crises. We must say no to war and yes to peace.”

 

Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler, Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh, underscored the Catholic Church’s contribution to peacebuilding in Cambodia, despite its modest size—comprising roughly 20,000 members, 80 priests, and 200 religious personnel.

 

He expressed gratitude to the Cambodian government for its consistent support, which has enabled religious communities to thrive and play active roles in promoting peace.

 

Chay Borin, Minister of Cults and Religion, who presided over the event, echoed the sentiment. He praised Cambodia’s stability and respect for religious freedom, saying, “Peace is essential, and maintaining and promoting it is a shared responsibility for all.”

 

The colloquium served as a reminder that, despite differing doctrines, the world’s faiths can stand together in the face of division and uncertainty. With Cambodia as host, the message was one of unity, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to building a more peaceful world.

 

-2025-05-29