The III International Buddhist Forum in Elista brought together more than 7 thousand people from 35 countries of the world

The III International Buddhist Forum has ended in the capital of Kalmykia. For four days, Elista became the capital of world Buddhism: about a thousand foreign guests visited the site. The numerous results include an updated infrastructure for world–class events, agreements and resolutions, visits by distinguished guests and the unification of cultures from around the world.

The III International Buddhist Forum ended in Elista on September 28. Over the course of four days, the capital of the Republic of Kalmykia gathered over 7 thousand guests, of whom about a thousand were representatives of foreign countries. In total, more than 50 events were attended by spiritual leaders, researchers, government and public figures from 35 countries. The forum was held on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of the Russian Federation: "The International Buddhist Forum has confirmed the high importance of the Buddhist tradition as part of the world's spiritual and cultural heritage, which is in demand in modern times. Such initiatives make a significant contribution to the development of international dialogue and the strengthening of interfaith harmony, which is of particular importance for maintaining trust and mutual understanding in society, as well as for the formation of a sustainable and just world order based on respect for the cultures and traditions of peoples. The holding of the forum in Elista has shown the city's willingness to ensure the organization of such high-level events."

Thanks to an integrated approach to preparing a landmark event for the Buddhist world, 10 roads were overhauled in the city, 10 urban infrastructure facilities were improved, the number of video surveillance cameras was increased by 140% and 31 traffic lights were installed. 48 municipal contracts were signed for the event. Repairs were carried out to the city's temple complexes: the Central Hurula "Golden Monastery of Shakyamuni Buddha" and religious buildings of other faiths. The territories around them are landscaped. A new hurul in the village of Ketchenery, 2 glamping hotels, 4 hotels, as well as a retreat center in the Gorodovikovsky district and a Buddhist Sunday school appeared on the map of Elista. The construction of the Buddha Park has begun - a statue of the Buddhist deity "Green Tara" has been installed.

One of the most important outcomes of the forum was a qualitatively new image of the capital of the Republic of Kalmykia – the city is ready to host new international events and implement global projects. The forum showed that Kalmykia has developed a world–class event industry, including tourism infrastructure, human resources, and a qualitatively new look for the capital of the region, Elista.

Batu Khasikov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia: "For us, the number "three" is deeply symbolic. It reminds of the three foundations – the "Three Jewels": The Buddha is the Founder, the Dharma is a sacred Teaching, and the Sangha is a community of like–minded people. This path has brought thousands of people from different parts of our planet to Elista. An even larger audience joined us remotely. I am sure that we have been able to build a dialogue of civilizations based on respect for the traditional values of each nation. Most importantly, they found common ground on issues such as the influence of Buddhist values on economic priorities, and discussed in detail the reflection of Buddhist culture in literature, art, architecture, and transcultural perspectives. I am sure that the forum will inspire generations and leave a significant mark in the history of Kalmykia, Russia and the whole world."

The highest level of the event was confirmed by the visits of distinguished guests. During the forum, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko visited Elista. He announced the welcome address of Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussed tourism development with representatives of the regional Government, thanked the volunteers, assessed the infrastructure of the first digital center in the Southern Federal District and the reconstruction of the Multifunctional Youth Center of the Republic, visited the construction site of the Buddha Park, and participated in the grand opening of the Sunday Buddhist school.

The multi-format cultural program, which covered key city venues, introduced the guests to the transformed capital of Kalmykia and the traditions of the region. The real event was the concert of the People's Artist of Russia Igor Butman and the Moscow Jazz Orchestra. This evening, jazz improvisations and ancient throat singing techniques performed by Kalmyk singer Vladimir Karuyev combined on one stage.

On the final day of the forum, the guests visited the Republican national cultural and sports festival "Jangariada", which has a history of more than a hundred years. Its program combines competitions in traditional Kalmyks sports such as javelin throwing, horse racing, archery and belt wrestling.