The Living Buddha of China's Tibetan Buddhism said all the three Buddhist sects Chinese, Tibetan and Pali coexist and are developing in China as equals and respect one another.

Tibetan Buddhism has observed the fine tradition of loving both the nation and Buddhism, he pointed out. "It is particularly worth mentioning that my predecessor, the 10th Panchen Lama, had made an outstanding contribution to the unity of the country and the solidarity of the people.

"I am convinced that as they transform their character, all living beings will certainly be on the right track to a harmonious, stable, and peaceful world."

Venerable K. Mahinda Sangharakkhita, chief incumbent of Kelaniya Royal Temple in Sri Lanka, said: "Thanks to the support from the Chinese Government, the forum will promote the spread of Buddhist teachings in the world as China has become one of the leading countries of the 21st century."

For Buddhist followers, the forum is a chance to pay tribute to well-known figures, most of whom are attending the gathering.

The forum opened yesterday, and is scheduled to close on Sunday. Hangzhou the capital of Zhejiang Province is famous among Buddhists all over China for its 1,600- year-old Lingyin Temple.

Ye Rong, 62, who flew from Guizhou Province in Southwest China, arrived outside the venue two hours before the forum opened. "I'll feel blessed even with a mere glimpse of the living Buddhas," she said.