Japanese Ambassador Kikuta and Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy Russek visited Lumbini

Lumbini, December 18, 2023: On Monday, a meeting took place between the Vice-Chair of Lumbini Development Trust, Dr. Lharkyal Lama (Khenpo Chime), and the Japanese Ambassador to Nepal, Kikuta Yutaka.

During the meeting, Vice-Chair Dr. Lama and Ambassador Yutaka discussed matters related to the religious, historical, and archaeological development of the Buddha's birthplace, Lumbini, as well as the Lumbini Master Plan.

Dr. Lama highlighted that Lumbini has become the center of world peace and expressed the desire to advance its development through collaboration with Japan. He mentioned the cooperation between Lumbini and Japan in the implementation of the Lumbini Master Plan prepared by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange in 1978.

Ambassador Yutaka, acknowledging Lumbini as a sacred place for Buddhists worldwide and a center of peace, conveyed Japan's commitment to continue supporting its development. He also emphasized Japan's dedication to peace and non-violence, citing their stance after the Second World War and the massacre.

The discussion during the meeting included topics such as the friendly relations between the two countries, promotion of Lumbini in Japan, and collaboration on the development of Lumbini.

Dr. Lama, along with Treasurer Siddhicharan Bhattarai, Secretary Sanuraja Shakya, and other members, welcomed Ambassador Kikuta and his delegation. The delegation also visited the Mayadevi Temple and Lumbini Monastic Zone during their visit.

Similarly, on the same day, the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, Dr. Stephan Russek, was also welcomed by the Lumbini Development Trust in Lumbini. Dr. Russek visited the birthplace of the Buddha and other historic sites.