Government House Reception
Monday 12th November  at 6.30pm

New South Wales Premier, the Hon. Bob Carr, MP, welcomed all the WBSC delegates, observers and guests not only to the Government House but to Sydney. He wished them all success with the Conference. In responding the Most Venerable Liao Chung acknowledged the NSW Government’s support of the Conference. He explained that one of its aims was to build a harmonious society without religious discrimination.
The Most Venerable pointed out the historic significance of holding the Conference in Australia for the first time and the fact that Buddhism was one of the fastest growing religions in Australia. He trusted with compassion and wisdom Buddhists would make a good contribution to a better society.

The Most Venerable Thich Phuoc Hue, President of the United Vietnamese Buddhist Congregation in Australia-New Zealand then responded.

The Most Venerable sincerely thanked the State Government of its kindness and hospitality. He hoped that their good relationship would continue. He acknowledged the vast effort so many people had made to make the Conference not only possible but such a success.

He hoped the delegates would share the information and results of the Conference with their Orders around the world.

The Most Venerable Thich Phuoc Hue closed by saying "May Buddha bless  everyone."

Then the Most Venerable Liao Chung, WBSC President, and Premier Bob Carr exchanged their gifts, to commemorate this beautiful meeting between the WBSC and Australia, especially in the State of New South Wales.

The State Reception closed at 8pm.