The Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi who is leading the African delegation to the fifth Buddhist International peace summit in the port city of Osaka Japan has called for dialogue as the most sure way of ending conflict especially in the developing countries.
The Vice President who was speaking to the Japanese media after a guided tour of a new Buddhist training facility below Mount Mikasa in Hyogo prefecture said part of the world conflicts are as a result socio- economic and political injustices and called for protection of the vulnerable especially women children and the elderly.
Ssekandi said that world peace can only be achieved when humans cease blaming each other for mistakes of the past and begin working together for a common better future without attempts of manipulation and exploitation of those with limited knowledge or tools to guard against such tendencies.
He said that Uganda has taken such a step to contribute to world peace by ensuring the safety and security of the great lakes region saying although it has been with a price tag fighting against armed militias in Somalia and other neighbouring countries and organised crime at home, Uganda is committed in ensuring that peace prevails in the region.
The Vice President commended the Buddhist leadership for promoting peace through humility and simplicity saying arrogance, indifference and intolerance have been responsible for some of the world worst conflicts that could have been avoided if only those involved were humble to accept their mistakes forged ahead with a common purpose.
He pledged Government commitment in working with groups like the Buddha faith on programs especially those aimed at improving the living conditions of the people in Uganda. Ssekandi Used the same occasion to invite the Japanese people to Uganda saying the country presents a litany of tourism and other opportunities that especially the youth should explore.
The Vice President is being accompanied by King Oyo and the Queen mother of Tooro, the Kamuswaga of Kooki, Uganda Ambassador to Japan Betty Aketch who have joined other royal families and Government representatives from over 40 countries participating in celebrations marking the fifth Buddhist International Day being held in Hyogo prefecture of Japan.
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