The World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB), one of the most influential global organisations dedicated to the advancement of Buddhist philosophy, celebrated its 75^th Anniversary recently at Vajiravudh College in Bangkok, bringing together delegates from more than 170 regional centres worldwide. As part of the anniversary programme, the WFB also held its 31^st General Conference, along with the 22^nd General Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhist Youth (WFBY) and the 13^th Council Meeting of the World Buddhist University (WBU) highlighting Buddhist fellowship, youth engagement, and academic collaboration.

Founded in 1950 by the renowned Pali scholar Prof. G. P. Malalasekera, the WFB brought together 129 delegates from 27 countries, uniting laity and sangha from nearly all Buddhist traditions for the first time in history. The conference aims to strengthen and share the Buddha’s teachings while fostering unity among Buddhists, and to continue social, cultural, educational, and humanitarian initiatives in collaboration with organisations working toward these shared goals. This year’s gathering focused on deepening dialogue across Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions, and on addressing key contemporary issues including environmental stewardship, sustainable development in line with the UN SDGs, and youth engagement. Accompanied by a distinguished delegation of Sri Lankan members, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, the Vice President of WFB represented Sri Lanka at the Conference, continuing the nation’s longstanding leadership in international Buddhist affairs.

Speaking on his participation at this year’s event, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala noted, “It is an honour to represent Sri Lanka at the 75^th Anniversary of the World Fellowship of Buddhists. As a nation with deep-rooted Buddhist traditions and the birthplace of this very organisation, we carry forward a responsibility to uphold the values of peace, compassion, and unity that the WFB stands for. This conference is not only a celebration of the past 75 years but a renewed call to safeguard the Dhamma for future generations.”

A respected philanthropist and former President of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala has led national initiatives in education, healthcare, cultural preservation, and social welfare. As the Founder Chairman of the Bauddhaloka Foundation, he continues to invest in heritage conservation, education, and community upliftment, further strengthening his lifelong commitment to Buddhist service. His contributions to Buddhist affairs have earned international recognition, including the First World Buddhist Outstanding Leader Award in 2014, and he has remained an active participant in WFB forums over the years.

Through the active involvement of leaders such as Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, Sri Lanka remains firmly at the heart of global Buddhist discourse, strengthening international connections and ensuring that the cultural and spiritual heritage nurtured on the island continues to guide generations to come.

Image Caption: Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, the Vice President of WFB represented Sri Lanka at the Conference at the 75^th Anniversary Celebration of WFB.