Buddhism Exchanges in Trans-Himalaya Region: Development and Recommendations

Abstract

This paper attempts to explain the historical development of exchange of Buddhism between China and the Trans-Himalayan countries, as well as its positive effects on the bilateral relations between them, and give some useful recommendations. It argued that Buddhism has become a powerful cultural tie that binds the nations in the region and promotes friendship between the Himalayan states. It also suggested that China should make further efforts to excavate Buddhist relics and sort out Buddhist spiritual resources on the silk road, promote the communication between Mahayana Buddhism and Theravada continuously on the basis of seeking common ground while reserving differences, encourage and support educational cooperation between China and Buddhist universities and colleges in trans-Himalaya countries through expanding the friendly exchanges between youth students and scholars, and provide necessary assistance such as funding and technology, to support the Buddhism exchange programs. Keywords—Buddhism; Himalayan; China; Communication;