Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, has highlighted the potential for Buddhists and Christians to collaborate in fostering peace through mutual respect and shared values.
Speaking at the 8th Buddhist-Christian Colloquium on the theme “Working Together for Peace through Reconciliation and Resilience,” Cardinal Koovakad described the gathering as a sacred space where representatives of two ancient faiths unite in their commitment to peace amid global challenges such as violence, poverty, injustice, and environmental degradation.
“Reconciliation and resilience are deeply rooted in both Buddhism and Christianity. They form the foundation for building peace and healing all crises,” he said. “We must say no to war and yes to peace.”
H.E. Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler, Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh, noted that the Catholic Church in Cambodia is a small but active community of around 20,000 faithful, 80 priests—including 14 Cambodian priests—and 200 religious men and women, including 15 Cambodian sisters. He emphasised the Church’s ongoing contributions to peacebuilding and development in the country.
“I especially thank the Royal Government of Cambodia for its continuous support, allowing our religions to be ambassadors of peace for the Cambodian people,” he said.
H.E. Chay Borin, Minister of Cults and Religion, who presided over the event, underlined that Cambodia’s peace, sustainable development, political stability, security, and social order have created an environment where freedom of religion is fully respected.
“Peace is essential, and maintaining and promoting it is a shared responsibility for all,” he stressed.
