On October 29th, at 10:00 a.m., Venerable Master Wu Le and his delegation paid a significant visit to the Veneto Regional Government (Palazzo Balbi), following the formal invitation of the President of the Veneto Region. The occasion marked a profound and friendly exchange between the two parties.
Due to unforeseen official duties, the President was unable to attend in person and entrusted Ms. Annalisa Bisson, Minister for International Relations of the Veneto Region, to receive the delegation on his behalf.
Minister Bisson extended a warm welcome to Master Wu Le and the accompanying delegation, presenting an overview of the Veneto Region’s cultural, economic, and international engagement. She shared her repeated visits to China, expressing deep admiration for the nation’s historical heritage and contemporary development. Having traveled to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, and Qingdao, she noted the strong ties of friendship she has built across various sectors in China.
In response, Master Wu Le expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed his genuine affection for Venice:
“Venice is a city celebrated worldwide for peace, civilization, and art. Its spirit resonates naturally with the compassion and harmony advocated by Buddhism.”
During the exchange, both sides engaged in an in-depth discussion centered on the theme of “Peace, Culture, and Zen Integration.” Master Wu Le expressed his aspiration to establish a center in Venice that integrates Zen culture, peace education, and international cultural exchange, serving as a platform for dialogue and spiritual exchange between Eastern and Western civilizations. Minister Bisson expressed strong support for this vision and conveyed the President’s endorsement of the initiative.
The Veneto side also recognized the efforts of the WuLe Symphony Orchestra in promoting peace and cultural dialogue, expressing willingness to support the orchestra in holding a large-scale symphony concert centered on the theme of “Peace” at the Arena di Verona.
To conclude the meeting, Minister Bisson, on behalf of the President, presented Master Wu Le with the Targa d’Onore della Regione del Veneto as a token of respect and friendship. In return, Master Wu Le offered a gift symbolizing peace and compassion. The visit concluded cordially with a group photograph, reflecting mutual warmth and respect.
This meeting was not merely a ceremonial exchange, but a heartfelt dialogue on peace, faith, and cultural integration. From East to West, the light of compassion and wisdom continues to transcend language and borders, illuminating the path toward global peace.
