The Common Aspiration Tree Planting & Monument Unveiling, as the first activity of the fourth World Buddhist Forum, occurred at Nianhua Bay Wetland Reserve in the Lingshan Scenic Spot of Wuxi, Jiangsu province, on Oct 23.

Jiang Jianyong, deputy director of the China Religions Cultural Communication Association, unveiled the Common Aspiration Trees Monument in the presence of several venerable masters from the Buddhist Association of China.

An official with several Buddhist masters unveils the Common Aspiration Trees Monument. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The invited guests planted a total of 108 gingko trees in a spiral pattern symbolizing the theme of this year's Buddhist forum - "Common Aspiration, Common Action". The planting is aimed at strengthening exchange between different branches of Buddhism and promoting the Buddhist philosophy of valuing environmental protection.

Buddhist masters plant trees together. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Lingshan is a magnificent Buddhist scenic spot in Wuxi, Binhu District. Nianhua Bay, a modern Buddhist resort, is located there, and is responsible for hosting several activities of this year's Buddhist forum.