Jayaratne said the proposed Buddhist centre aims to educate tourists visiting the historic Anuradhapura city about Buddhist philosophy and its practical adoption in solving problems faced by people.

“We are making arrangements deliver lectures on Buddhist philosophy and hold religious discussions regularly. We also hope to conduct meditation programs,” said the chief minister. “It is important to establish such a centre to cater to international requirements. Mahavihara archaeological excavations are also planned on the instructions of President Maithripala Sirisena,” the chief minister added.

A discussion was held in this regard with the participation of Mahavihara maha sangha headed by Atamasthanadhipathi Ven. Dr. Pallegama Siriniwasa Nayaka Thera and officials at the Chief Minister’s office including chief minister’s secretary Chandrasiri Bandara, planning director DMSS Dissanayake, chief minister’s private secretary Dr. Dhammika de Silva and North Central Governor’s Coordinating Secretary Anura Dissanayake.

Atamasthanadhipathi Nayaka Thera said he will facilitate to provide a two storeyed building to house the centre. Chief Ministry Secretary said the Chief Minister has instructed to start the centre within this year.