Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh on May 3 attended a ceremony to mark the 2564th birthday of Lord Buddha at Minh Dao pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City.

Deputy PM Truong Hoa Binh (L) presents a bouquet of flowers to Most Venerable
Thich Thien Nhon, Chairman of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha’s Executive Council,
on the 2564th birthday of Lord Buddha (Photo:VNA)

Deputy PM Binh extended greetings to Buddhist monks, nuns and followers on the important event of Buddhism, and called on them to continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation throughout the cause of national construction and defence, in order to build a more prosperous nation. 

He thanked Buddhist followers for their significant contributions to national development over the years, especially the ongoing battle against the novel coronavirus, as well as their support and assistance to people affected by the epidemic. 

The Party and the State always respect the freedom of belief and religion of the people to ensure religions operate according to the law, while creating conditions for religious dignitaries and followers, including Buddhists, to practise their religion and fulfill their obligation to the nation, Binh affirmed. 

For his part, Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, Chairman of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha’s Executive Council, said since introduced in Vietnam more than 2,000 years ago, Buddhism has accompanied the nation through ups and downs to build a happy and peaceful society. 

He noted under the leadership of the Party and State, Vietnamese Buddhist followers have joined hands with the people in combating the COVID-19 epidemic, resulting in initial success. In response to the Government’s appeal, Buddhist followers have temporarily suspended big events and raised more than VND5 billion in donations to support the battle. 

The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha will continue to encourage its followers to practice by law, fulfill their citizens' obligations, and actively participate in social activities, including charity and poverty reduction, said the Most Venerable.