(VOVworld) - Lunar New Year greetings were delivered to authorities and people in different localities on Monday.

The delegation of the Evangelical Church of Vietnam (North) visits the Hanoi People’s Committee on February 1, 2016 (Photo: kinhtedothi.vn)

Receiving a delegation of the Evangelical Church of Vietnam (North), Vice Standing Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Vu Hong Khanh said the Church has continued to join in community efforts.

He said Hanoi always respects the right to belief and religious freedom and has paid heed to improving living standards for both religious and secular residents.

He also expressed his hope that the Church will continue its active participation in the city’s emulation movements and contributions to municipal and national development. Pastor Bui Van San thanked the municipal authorities for supporting the Church and pledged the Church’s devotion to national growth.

At a get-together in Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Thanh Phong – Vice Chairman of the municipal Party Committee and Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee – briefed foreign representative agencies about the southern city’s prominent economic, cultural and social achievements and key tasks for 2016.

UK Consul General to HCM City Douglas Barnes said that the municipality is considered a vanguard of economic and institutional reforms in Vietnam and also an ideal destination for investment and initiatives.

The same day, representatives of the bishop’s palace of the Diocese of Vinh and the Vinh Thanh Major Seminary, based in the central province of Nghe An, visited the provincial People’s Committee.

Provincial officials informed the guests about local socio-economic accomplishments last year and missions set for 2016, while appreciating their support for Nghe An.