President Truong Tan Sang has spoken highly of the contributions made to the nation by religious dignitaries, including the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) and the Committee for Solidarity of Vietnamese Catholics.

The president was full of praise during meetings on the threshold of the Lunar New Year with Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, Vice Chairman of the VBS Executive Board and head of the Sangha’s Ho Chi Minh City chapter; Most Venerable Thich Thien Tam, also from the board; Priest Nguyen Cong Danh, Chairman of the Committee for Solidarity of Vietnamese Catholics (CSVC) and its Ho Chi Minh City chapter; and Priest Phan Khac Tu, Vice Chairman of the CSVC’s chapter in the city.

He said that the combined force of all people nationwide, regardless of their religion, will help the country overcome its difficulties and further develop and said he hopes that the religious dignitaries will continue to encourage their followers to uphold solidarity, lead good secular and religious lives and contribute to building a better Vietnam.

Most Venerable Quang said he believed that Vietnam will continue to develop strongly and gain further respect in the international arena.

Priest Danh affirmed that the Catholic solidarity committee will work with the entire nation to ensure a successful 2014.

Visiting People’s Artists Vien Chau and Tra Giang, President Sang said he hopes that they will continue to devote to the country’s art sector and share experience with the younger generation.-VNA