KATHMANDU: Myanmar has conferred one of its highest religious honours on a Nepali Buddhist scholar, recognising his contributions to Buddhist education and the development of Nepal's sacred heritage including Lumbini.

Most Venerable Khenpo Chimed Tsering, also known as Dr Lharkyal Lama, was awarded the "Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja" title by Myanmar's Ambassador to Nepal, U Thant Sin, during a ceremony held at Ngagyur Palyul Ling Monastery in Kathmandu on behalf of the Government of Myanmar.

Khenpo Chimed Tsering, a former vice-chairperson of the Lumbini Development Trust, currently serves as president of Ngagyur Palyul Ling Monastery and has been involved in initiatives related to the development of the Lumbini region and the promotion of Buddhist teachings.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador U Thant Sin said the annual conferment of religious titles reflects Myanmar's commitment to supporting the preservation and propagation of the Buddha Sasana, and underlined the importance of continued cooperation between Nepal and Myanmar in promoting their shared Buddhist heritage.

The ceremony was attended by more than 200 participants, including monks, nuns, diplomats from Sri Lanka, India and the United States, officials of the Lumbini Development Trust, and representatives of Buddhist organisations. Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Nepal, Ruwanthi Delpitiya, and representatives of the Maha Bodhi Society were among those who addressed the gathering.