The 50th anniversary of the founding of the German Dharmaduta Society (1952-2002) falls today (September 21) and a commemoration celebration will take place today at the Savsiripaya Auditorium, No. 123, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7.

President Chandrika Kumaratunga in her message said that the German Dharmaduta Society founded by late Asoka Weeraratna in 1952 was playing a unique role in Germany by managing the Berlin Buddhist Vihara and catering to Germans and people of other nationalities living in Europe who learn to practise the Buddhist Dhamma.

Premier Ranil Wickremasinghe pointed out that in today’s Sri Lanka’s atmosphere of unrest, the message of Lord Buddha was of immense benefit. "Buddhism teaches tolerance and patience. It is a philosophy that places its emphasis on peace and non-violence. It is through compassion and tolerance that problems and strife can be settled," he said.

The Minister of Power and Energy in his message said that Sri Lanka, since time immemorial, had drawn international recognition for its leadership in the Buddhist world. "I am of the view that this position of leadership should be maintained by active Buddhist Dharmaduta work abroad."