The Buddhist Association of China on Friday held a commemorative event to observe this year's birth anniversary of the Buddha at Guangji Temple in Beijing.

Participants at the event included representatives from China's major Buddhist communities, envoys to China from nine countries including Cambodia, Myanmar and Nepal, as well as members of the public.

Generations of Buddhist followers have adhered to the Buddha's teachings, served society, promoted exchanges among civilizations, and built a friendly bridge of harmony, mutual respect, and common development among people of different countries, said Master Yanjue, head of the Buddhist Association of China, in his speech.

During the event, the master led Buddhist monks chanting in front of the statue of the infant Buddha and pouring water on the statue.

The ceremony is also known as the Bathing of the Buddha, symbolizing the moment of the Buddha's birth.