iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
A special gathering in Vienna brought together diplomats, community leaders, and spiritual representatives as the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations marked two important milestones.
The event took place at the UN Office in Austria and focused on renewing a shared commitment to peace, harmony, and service.
The occasion celebrated 30 years of BAPS’ partnership with the UN’s Economic and Social Council and the 25th anniversary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s address at the Millennium World Peace Summit at the UN headquarters in New York.
Representatives from countries including Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and the U.S. joined UN officials to acknowledge the long association between BAPS and global institutions.
Speakers highlighted the alignment of values between BAPS and the UN, especially the focus on unity, inclusion, and collective progress. Officials praised the themes of the event and recognized BAPS’ humanitarian work, including efforts to support refugees from Ukraine and community service programs across the United States. They also stressed the importance of collaboration between civil society groups and international institutions to support sustainable development.
The upcoming BAPS mandir in Paris was noted as a growing symbol of cultural understanding in Europe, while speakers pointed to the organisation’s continued service in local communities worldwide. Leaders emphasized that spirituality and service can reinforce each other and help build bridges in diverse societies.
The gathering ended with blessings calling on people to carry forward the work of spreading kindness and contributing positively to the world, reinforcing the day’s call for partnership and shared purpose.
Photo: x.com/BAPS