The Buddhist delegation was led by Ven. Thích Thanh Nhiễu, Standing Vice President of the VBS’s Central Executive Council and joint by Ven. Thích Đức Thiện, General Secretary of the VBS.

Welcoming the Buddhist delegation at the home affairs ministry’s office included Minister Lê Vĩnh Tân, Deputy Minister Nguyễn Trọng Thừa and Chairman of the government religious committee Vũ Chiến Thắng.

Speaking with the hosts, Ven. Thích Thanh Nhiễu thanked leaders of home affairs ministry for their assistance in supporting and guiding the UN Day of Vesak 2019 in Ha Nam province in May. The Buddhist dignitary also spoke highly of the home affairs minister’s explanation at the previous session of the National Assembly on activities at Buddhist worshipping places and said this comment helped deputies and people better understand the Buddhist life and practices in the country.

Minister of Home Affairs Lê Vĩnh Tân congratulated the Vietnam Buddhist church on the successful hosting of the 16^th UN Day of Vesak and said the international Buddhist event contributed to promote images and understanding of Vietnam, including Buddhism and the religious freedom in the country.

Earlier in the day and at the headquarters of the government religious committee, Ven. Thích Thanh Nhiễu, on behalf of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, extended congratulations and warm greetings to all GCRA’s leaders and staff on occasion of the 64^th founding anniversary of the Government Committee for Religious Affairs (August 2).

Speaking with the visiting Buddhist delegation, Dr. Vũ Chiến Thắng affirmed that the State of Vietnam always pays due attention to the spiritual life of people and facilitates the operation of religious organizations, including the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, in the legal framework of the state. He also asked the Vietnam Buddhist church to uphold fine traditions and make further contributions to national construction and defense.

Chairman Thích Thanh Nhiễu, Buddhist delegation in group photo

PTT