(VOVWORLD) -The Party and State are steadfast in their policy of respecting and guaranteeing the people's right to freedom of belief and religion, ensuring that religious activities comply with the law, charter and regulation of a religion recognized by the State, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh congratulates Lord Buddha's 2567th birthday. Photo: VOV
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The PM on Friday visited Quan Su Pagoda, the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, in Hanoi, where he extended congratulations to Buddhist dignitaries, monks, nuns and followers on the occasion of Lord Buddha's 2567th birthday (Vesak day).
PM Chinh emphasized that during the course of nearly two thousand years of attachment and companionship with the nation, Buddhism has been an important part of the cultural and spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.
“With the tradition of patriotism and standing side by side with the nation, I believe that the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha continues to promote the spirit of incarnation and taking the service for the benefit of the people, country, and the world as a way to practice religion," he said.
"I call on the Vietnamese Buddhist Sangha at all levels continue to uphold the tradition of exemplary solidarity in mobilizing monks, nuns, and fellow Buddhists to well implement the guidelines of the Party, the State's policies and laws, actively respond to patriotic emulation movements, participate in and effectively carry out charitable activities for social security, and promote the great national unity for a powerful and prosperous Vietnam.”
 Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, President of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha’s Executive Council. Photo: VOV |
Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, President of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha’s Executive Council, said that the Vesak celebration in Vietnam has been held widely and with satisfactory results, demonstrating freedom of religion in a peaceful and unified country.
He affirmed that the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha will continue to guide monks, nuns, and Buddhists nationwide to well implement the Party's guidelines, the State's laws, and the Sangha's Charter, contributing to national construction and defense.