Deputy Minister Vũ Chiến Thắng and Archbishop Marek Zalewski posing for group photo

Joining the event included Vice Chairman of the Government Committee for Religious Affairs Nguyễn Tiến Trọng and representatives from concerning central ministries, agencies and the provincial authorities.

Catholic dignitaries at the ceremony included Archbishop Marek Zalewski, Resident Papal Representative of the Holy See in Vietnam, Archbishop Joseph Nguyễn Năng, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Vietnam cum Archbishop of Ho Chi Minh city Archdiocese and archbishops, bishops of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Vietnam.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Vũ Chiến Thắng stressed that Catholicism has developed in Vietnam for nearly 500 years and become an important part of the great national unity bloc, promoted fine cultural and moral values of Vietnam, contributing to the sustainable development of the country.

Deputy Minister Vũ Chiến Thắng speaks at the ceremony

The Deputy Minister spoke highly of practical contributions made by Phan Thiet diocese in the past 50 years under the leadership of former bishops and current Bishop Joseph Đỗ Mạnh Hùng, General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Vietnam, and stated that the diocese has made a significant progress in terms of organization, religious affairs and worshipping facilities, well observed the Pope Francis’ guidance to actively collaborate with local authorities, accompany with the nation, provide supports to disadvantaged people and care for environmental protection and climate change adaptation.

While extending best wishes to the diocese, Deputy Minister Vũ Chiến Thắng expressed hope that Phan Thiet diocese would continue to uphold fine traditions, closely working with authorities at all levels and people to realize the shared goals of making Vietnam a strong country with prosperous people and a fair, democratic and civilized society.

PH