The Second World Buddhist Forum opened Saturday in the eastern Chinese city of Wuxi with more than 1,700 Buddhist monks and scholars from about 50 countries and regions putting their heads together to discuss how Buddhism can contribute to building a harmonious world.

During the five-day event, the participants will exchange ideas on how to better preserve Buddhist music and the Tripitaka, which is considered as the encyclopedia of Buddhist culture. They will also talk about the relationship between Buddhism and science, Buddhism and public welfare, Buddhism and environment protection, and other topics.

In addition to seminars, a series of exhibitions on Buddhist relics, porcelain, handicrafts, photos and calligraphy will be held during the forum.

(CCTV/Xinhua March 28, 2009)