A leading official of the Buddhist Association of China expressed shock and sorrow Saturday about the alleged decision of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan to destroy Buddhist statues in Bamiyan.
It was reported that the Taliban has decided to destroy cultural relics including the Bamiyan Buddhas, which have been listed as a world cultural heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The official said that Buddhism is an important component of world culture, and its relics are treasures belonging to the people of the whole world.
"Chinese Buddhist circles are concerned about this decision, which deeply offends the feelings of Buddhists. We urge the Taliban to halt this destructive act immediately," the official appealed.
(people's Daily 03/04/2001)
