The Party, State and authorities at all levels always pay attention to and create conditions for religious activities in accordance with the law, for the sake of the country and people.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the affirmation at his meeting with a delegation of the Episcopal Council of the Catholic Church of Vietnam in Hanoi on January 21, during which he stated that all religions are equal before law.

The State respects and protects the freedom of belief and religion, the leader said, adding that no one is permitted to violate the right or take advantage of the right to break the law.

Wishing the council’s dignitaries and parishioners in general a happy and merry New Year, he voiced his hope that Catholic followers will make more contributions to the country’s construction and protection as well as the great national unity.

The country overcame various challenges and difficulties to reap comprehensive outcomes in socio-economic spheres in 2013, he said, attributing successes to the active contributions of Catholics.

Over the past years, Catholic followers have abided by the policies, guidelines and law of the Party and State and actively engaged in the country’s socio-economic development, poverty reduction and humanitarian activities.

Bui Van Doc, the council’s President, was thankful for the good sentiments and attention of the Party and State to the council’s operation as well as the activities of the Catholic community.

Catholics will play a more active role in the country’s socio-economic development, join hands with people across the country on the path ahead and lead good secular and religious lives, he pledged.-VNA