ISLAMABAD: Sacred Buddhist relics from the Taxila archaeological site near Islamabad were returned to Pakistan on Thursday after the conclusion of a three-week exhibition in various locations in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan minister of sustainable development, wildlife and regional development, Sarath Fonseka, was present at Bandaranaike International Airport to see off the relics. So too were senior government officials and Pakistani diplomats.
Pakistan sent the relics at the request of Sri Lanka’s government in connection with the Annual Buddha Rashmi National Vesak Festival.
“Millions of devotees paid their respects and homage” to the relics, said Pakistan’s High Commission in Sri Lanka.
The exhibition began on April 29, attended by Sri Lanka’s president and prime minister, as well as Buddhist clergy, scholars, ministers and MPs.
“The advent and development of Buddhism owes a great deal to the ancient land of Pakistan,” said the High Commission.
“It was here where the religious activities of Buddhism reached their climax through well-organized missionaries, and ultimately made it a world religion.”
Buddhist relics returned to Pakistan after Sri Lanka expo
Buddhist relics returned to Pakistan after Sri Lanka expo

- High Commission: ‘Millions of devotees paid their respects and homage’
- The exhibition began on April 29, attended by Sri Lanka’s president and prime minister, as well as Buddhist clergy, scholars, ministers and MPs