Brussels, November 17th, 2024
From November 12th to November 16th, 2024, a high-level delegation from the Europe-Asia Center attended the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. Europe-Asia Center representatives not only engaged in in-depth discussions and interactions with a number of global stakeholders, but also participated in various panel discussions and delivered keynote addresses.
H.E. Erik Solheim, Co-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), participated in the plenary session of the Ecumene Global Forum, held as part of COP29, highlighting the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to achieve peace in both Ukraine or Palestine.
On November 14th, 2024, H.E. Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, hosted a productive lunch meeting with the Abbot Shi Yongxin, Cultural Advisor of the Europe-Asia Center and the Abbot of the Shaolin Temple. The meeting emphasized the critical role of religious leaders in addressing global challenges. Judge Abdelsalam highlighted the profound influence of religions in solving global issues, while the Abbot underlined the importance of the "Document on Human Fraternity». Both leaders agreed that the Faith Pavilion serves as a vital platform for interfaith dialogue, fostering cooperation to protect the planet and resolve conflicts.
That same day, Abbot Shi Yongxin also met Jeffrey Sachs, an economist and global sustainable development advocate, for an insightful discussion on the importance of faith and faith leaders in tackling ecological and societal issues. Their exchange highlighted that spiritual and moral guidance is essential in promoting sustainable development and addressing global challenges.
Later that afternoon, H.E. Erik Solheim and Abbot Shi Yongxin engaged in a meaningful dialogue with Sadhguru, Indian Guru and founder of the Isha Foundation. During the discussion, Abbot Shi Yongxin presented Sadhguru with a unique artwork of Bodhidharma and extended a warm invitation to visit the cave near the Shaolin Temple, where Bodhidharma is believed to have meditated for nine years. Sadhguru expressed appreciation for the enriching conversation and shared his eagerness to visit Shaolin Temple and collaborate on promoting Kung Fu as a cultural bridge. He also emphasized his aspiration to strengthen relations between China and India, envisioning a brighter and more prosperous future for both nations.
On November 15th, 2024, with the gracious invitation of H.E. Judge Mohamed Abdel-Salam and the Europe-Asia Center, Abbot Shi Yongxin delivered an inspiring speech at the Faith Pavilion. His address focused on Zen wisdom of the Shaolin Temple and its relevance to combating climate change. He offered a unique perspective on fostering harmony between humanity and nature, which he argued could contribute positively to addressing contemporary ecological challenges. Following the Abbot's keynote address, the Abbot and Mr. Solheim engaged in an insightful panel discussion on the role of faith in advancing the realization of the Paris Agreement, moderated by Jonathan Schwestka, Deputy Director for Europe of the Europe-Asia Center.
The Abbot also unveiled a new training program on mindfulness jointly developed by the Shaolin Temple, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), and the Europe-Asia Center. The program aims to expand the reach of Shaolin's ancient wisdom and teachings, making people healthier and happier in China, Europe, and beyond. By integrating Zen principles into modern life, the program emphasizes mindfulness as a tool for improving mental health, building resilience, and fostering global cooperation. This international initiative integrates the principles of the Shaolin Temple with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“In today’s world inflicted with an escalating ecological crisis, humanity needs to harness the profound and extensive positive energy of Zen Buddhism to illuminate the mind, purify the soul and serve the society, in order to achieve harmonious coexistence between man and nature”, said Abbot Shi Yongxin.
For press enquiries:
Jonathan Schwestka, Deputy Director for Europe, Europe-Asia Center