The delegation was welcomed by Archbishop in charge of Thanh Hoa diocese Joseph Nguyễn Chí Linh, who is also the President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Vietnam.

During the visiting reception, on behalf of the leaders of the Ministry of Public Security, Deputy Minister Bùi Văn Nam wished the priests, religious dignitaries and parishioners in Thanh Hoa province a merry Christmas season.

The Deputy Minister of Public Security also took the chance to brief the host on the country’s socio-economic development and security and defense in 2017.

Deputy Minister Bùi Văn Nam affirmed that the Party, State, authorities, branches and the armed forces at all levels always attach importance to creating favorable conditions for religions to operate in accordance with the laws, contributing to promote national solidarity and socio-economic development.

Deputy Minister Bùi Văn Nam also appreciated the role of priests and religious dignitaries in Thanh Hoa diocese in strengthening the national unity bloc and spoke highly of positive contributions of the diocese to national construction and defense in the country. 

Delegates at the event

For his part, Archbishop Joseph Nguyễn Chí Linh thanked Deputy Minister Bùi Văn Nam, the leaders of the Ministry Public Security and the Thanh Hoa Provincial Government and Police for their Christmas visit. He also pledged to do his best along with other religious dignitaries and parishioners to promote the national unity bloc, and act as good citizens while actively contributing to local economic development and maintenance of security and order. 

PTT