A preliminary discussion regarding the organizing activities of the event on observing the International Day of Wesak next year was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at his official residence. The United Nations' annual event to mark the day will be held in Sri Lanka for the first time.

The President instructed relevant ministries and the officials to hold the event on a grand scale under the state sponsorship. Furthermore, Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakse was directed to appoint a ministerial sub-committee for organizing activities. In addition, a progress review meeting will also be held once a month under the patronage of the President to make the event a success.

Giving opportunity to host the function is considered as a privilege received by the Sri Lankan Buddhists. More than thousands members of the Maha Sangha and representatives from Buddhist countries such as India, China, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Tibet and Bhutan are scheduled to participate in the ceremony.