(VOVworld)-The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and its Hanoi ’s branch have held a ceremony to mark the 2,556th birthday of Lord Buddha.

Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi (photo:Internet)

Addressing the ceremony in Quan Su pagoda on Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan congratulated Buddhist dignitaries, monks, nuns and Buddhist followers on the occasion. He praised their achievements in practice good deeds while respecting the law and engaging in humanitarian activities and poverty reduction. Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan: “The Party and State have consistently respected and ensure freedom in beliefs and religion while facilitating religious followers and dignitaries in their rightful practice and fulfillment of citizen obligation to the homeland. I believe that the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha will continue to promote the fine tradition of Vietnam ’s Buddhism in national unity, construction and defense.”

Million of Buddhist followers joined the celebration nationwide. Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and Standing Member of the Party Secretariat Le Hong Anh sent flowers to the ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City . Rituals to mark the ceremony and pray for peace were held in Hue central city and Kien Giang southern province.