(VOVWORLD) - In the days leading up to Christmas, Vietnamese Party and State leaders have been visiting Catholic parishes nationwide to celebrate the holiday and engage with dignitaries, clergies, and parishioners. The leaders have highlighted Catholics' contributions to national development and expressed their hope that religious followers will continue to uphold national unity to build a prosperous nation.
 Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh visits and congratulates the Catholic Solidarity Committee. (Photo: Nguyen Nhung/VOV1) |
Throughout Vietnam's history, Catholics have consistently demonstrated patriotism and solidarity and complied with Party guidelines and State policies, playing a vital role in national construction and defense.
Catholics’ great contribution to national development
During a visit to Lao Cai Parish on Sunday, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reaffirmed the Party and State’s respect for human rights, including freedom of belief and religion. He emphasized Vietnam’s commitment to creating favorable conditions for religious organizations to operate under the Constitution and laws.
The Prime Minister highlighted the development of relations between Vietnam and the Vatican, calling it a foundation for the Catholic community to follow the motto "Respect God, love the country." He expressed his hope that Catholic priests and parishioners will continue to contribute to building a strong and prosperous Vietnam.
 Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visits Lao Cai Parish and presents gifts to priests, dignitaries, and parishioners' families on the occasion of Christmas, December 22. (Photo: Nhat Bac/VGP) |
While visiting Archbishop Giuse Nguyen Nang of the HCM City archdiocese, President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Do Van Chien praised the Catholic community for its active role in national development, particularly through programs on community care, environmental protection, and climate change response.
Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh, during his visit to the Vietnam Catholic Solidarity Committee, commended the Committee’s role in fostering national unity and national growth.
 Archbishop Giuse Nguyen Nang (right) at a meeting with VFF President Do Van Chien (Photo: VOV.) |
Catholics’ commitment to national advancement
At his meeting with VFF President Chien, Archbishop Nang said Vietnamese people now think about delicious meals and beautiful clothes, not just enough to eat and something to wear, because of significant improvements in their living standard. He expressed his confidence that, with Party guidelines and State policies in place, Catholics will continue to actively contribute to national development.
“We’ve moved to a new height and will advance further as the nation rises. The Catholic Church remains committed to serving society, the people, and the nation. I hope that even small acts will reflect our dedication to building a better Vietnam,” said Archbishop Nang.
 President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Do Van Chien highly appreciates the contributions of Knight of the Grand Cross Le Duc Thinh over the past time. (Photo: VOV.) |
At a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh, Archbishop Giuse Vu Van Thien of the Hanoi archdiocese expressed his hope for even more favorable conditions for Catholic religious activities. He said Vietnamese Catholics and the Hanoi archdiocese will continue to join in national development as Vietnam enters a new era of rise.
Knight of the Grand Cross Le Duc Thinh, one of the first Asians recognized by Pope Francis for his significant contributions to society, highlighted the Catholic Church’s ongoing efforts to advance Vietnam.
“I will continue to work with the community to build a prosperous country. Together, we will encourage the next generation to be responsible, compassionate, and kind. I’m confident Vietnam will continue to grow,” said Thinh.