From May 5th to 7th, Xizu Temple in Madagascar hosted an extraordinary cultural convergence: The 2025 Xizu Temple Buddha's Birthday and the First World Peace and Cultural Art Festival. Global football icons, artists, cultural scholars, and spiritual practitioners gathered here, exploring the harmony between art and spirituality through football, music, calligraphy, poetry, and dialogues—all converging in prayer for world peace.
Distinguished Malagasy Officials in Attendance:
Mr. Tokely Justin, Speaker of the National Assembly
RAKOTOARISOA Nirina Fenohery Johnny, Member of the National Assembly
Mr. Nicolas Rabemananjara, Vice President of the Senate
Mr. Rasoamaromaka, Governor of Analamanga Region
Mme Mamy Ravatomanga, President of the Association for Fundamental Development (AFF)
Mme Volamiranty Donna, Minister of Communication and Culture
Hon. Mr. Rakotondrazaka Andriatsarafara, Minister of Gendarmerie
Mme Viviane Dewa, Minister of Tourism
Mr. PERCY, Representative of Ankazobe District
Notable Guests in Attendance:
Mr. Andrea Pirlo, World Football Legend
Mr. Alessandro Patelli, Secretary-General of Lombardy Regional Council, Italy
H.E. Dr. Michele Franchi, Consul General of Italy to Madagascar
Mr. SAM TIO (Cen Weicheng), President of the Chinese Association in Antananarivo
Mr. Zhang Changxiao, Chinese Chairman of the CENTRO PER L’INTERSCAMBIO E LO SVILUPPO CULTURALE ITALIA-CINA（ICCX）
7Grani , Renowned Italian Folk Band
Ms. Lü You, Secretary-General of the Italy Shandong Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Zhang Xueyuan, Director of the American Zen Meditation Center
Mr. Hu Guanqun, Member of the American Zen Cultural Center
Ms. Cai Lilong, Executive President of the Madagascar Chinese Women's Association
Ms. Dominika Malczewska, Educator from Poland
Bridging cultures through art and uniting hearts through compassion, this grand gathering transcends cultural exchange to become a symphony of souls. Art embodies Zen, while peace blossoms from love. May our shared goodwill dissolve discord and nurture global harmony.
We look forward to reconvening next year to continue this sacred bond of goodwill!
