The ceremony in Hanoi (Photo: VNA)

Addressing the ceremony, Vice Chairman of the Sangha’s Executive Council Most Venerable Thich Bao Nghiem said he hopes all Buddhists at home and abroad will make greater efforts amid Vietnam’s greater international integration.

For her part, Head of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Mass Mobilisation Truong Thi Mai affirmed that Buddhism has accompanied the nation for thousands of years, and become deeply rooted in the nation. She said the Party, the State and people have always valued the contributions the Sangha has made to the nation: “2017 will see many events important to Vietnam and the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, particularly the 8th National Buddhist Congress. I believe that with responsibility and wisdom, the dignitaries in Sangha’s councils and all Buddhist followers will successfully organize the Congress. I call on party committees, administrations, ministries and localities to continue to create favorable conditions for the operation of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and for exercising the rights to freedom of beliefs and religions during national development.”

A ceremony was held in district 1, Ho Chi Minh city to mark Buddha’s birthday, attended by thousands of people. An incense offering ritual and a dove and balloon release took place to pray for peace and prosperity.