The Royal Thai Embassy in Santiago, in collaboration with the Thailand Foundation, has organized the “Dhamma Diplomacy’s Initiative in Chile.” The initiative was deeply honored by the presence of the venerable Ajahn Vajiro and Ajahn Mudito, who traveled from UK and Brazil to deliver Dhamma sermons and lead guided meditation sessions for the people of Chile.
This project was dedicated to making merit and paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, and Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati, in profound remembrance of their royal benevolence, particularly their enduring patronage of Buddhism.
The initiative comprised three historic sessions. The first session was hosted at the Bahá’í Temple of South America (Templo Bahá‘í de Sudamérica) under the theme “Harmony and Unity in the Context of Diversity.” Luang Por Ajahn Vajiro illuminated the concept of “Sammā”—the state of being perfectly in tune and aligned with the ultimate truth of nature and Dhamma. Furthermore, he highlighted the value of Sīla (morality) as a noble wealth and a precious gift that individuals can offer to themselves and others to eradicate fear from the mind. On this occasion, Spanish-language Dhamma books from Amaravati Buddhist Monastery in the United Kingdom were presented to the participants amid a serene and heartwarming atmosphere.
Marking a historic milestone, the second session expanded the Embassy’s cultural outreach to the regional province for the first time, in the city of Valparaíso. Held at the Valparaiso Cultural Park—a vibrant community hub built on the site of a former public prison and gunpowder warehouse—the session explored the theme “The Practice of the Buddhist Path.” The teachings focused on cultivating Dāna (generosity), Sīla (morality), Samādhi (concentration), and radiating loving-kindness toward oneself and all sentient beings. The event saw an enthusiastic turnout from local Buddhist practitioners, including the Sidharta Buddhist Meditation Center and the Budismo Theravada en Chile group. To support their long-standing dedication and sustainable spiritual development, the Embassy also presented a financial contribution to the local Buddhist community.
The final installment took place at the NH Hotel in Santiago, under the theme “The Result of the Path: Contentment and Happiness.” The venerable speakers emphasized the creation of happiness in the present moment through gratitude, appreciation, and Mudita (sympathetic joy)—a true happiness that remains independent of worldly conditions. The overwhelming turnout across all three days from Thai nationals, Chileans, and international residents alike stands as a testament to the resounding success of Dhamma Diplomacy. This initiative has transcended geographical boundaries to cultivate a global community of spiritual kinship. Moving forward, the Royal Thai Embassy and the Thailand Foundation remain profoundly committed to working together to foster and sustain this bridge of spiritual wisdom.
