TOKYO: His Holiness the Dalai Lama concluded a two-day comprehensive dialogue with Japanese scientists at the historic Okura hotel in central Tokyo yesterday.

Addressing the scientists before the dialogue, His Holiness said he has always been captivated by mechanical science. He said that scientists in general are very open minded and they are always curious and skeptical about new things.

“We must also remain very skeptical and investigate thoroughly. That is the Nalanda tradition of learning. We also need to practice the useful information from science and technology in our lives” His Holiness said.

At the same time, His Holiness also noted that even though modern science has developed a lot till now, there is still a lot to study about inner science, the science of mind.

The two-day dialogue session saw many noted scientists from Japan speak about their experiences as well as share their opinions about spirituality vs modern science. Speakers include Dr Kazuo Murakami, Dr Fumio Shimura, Dr Hario Saji, Dr Yokoyama, Dr Fumiko Yanazawa, Dr Masahi Yanagisawa, Dr Nahogi Yahagi and Dr Norie Kawai.

Topics of discussion included ‘DNA,Technology and Buddhism’, ‘Physical Science and Buddhism’,  ‘Medical Science and Buddhism’ and ‘Scientific Creativity and Challenges’.

The whole two-day session was moderated by Mrs Mitsuko Shimomura, a leading journalist from Japan.

Speaking to TibetNet after the dialogue, Mr Lhakpa Tshoko , representative of His Holiness for Japan and East Asia said, “the two-day dialogue session  between His Holiness and Japanese scientists was very successful”.

“This is the first ever dialogue between His Holiness and scientists in Japan. More than 1500 people including many Japanese spiritual figures, professors as well as former and present embassy officials of many countries came to attend the dialogue” he said.

Tomorrow, His Holiness will meet with Ms Deepa Gopalan Wadhwa, the new Indian ambassador to Japan.

Other programmes during this visit also include public talks at Okinawa and Tokyo as well as interviews with Japanese media and a talk to political figures on 13 November.