Welcoming the Vatican delegation, PM Phuc said the life of the Catholic community in Vietnam has continually improved, stressing that the country’s development achievements in 2017 were greatly contributed by Catholics nationwide.
He affirmed that the Vietnamese Government always promotes national solidarity and is consistent in respecting and ensuring the right to freedom of belief and religion of all people. It also pays special attention to developing areas of religious followers with disadvantages.
He expressed his delight at the maintenance of the joint working group mechanism, through which the two sides have kept dialogue and discussion to enhance mutual understanding and settle problems.
The PM added Vietnam hopes to intensify relations with the Holy See, including the exchange of high-ranking delegations.
Antoine Camilleri said he is impressed with Vietnam’s attainments, traditional culture, the diverse and dynamic life of Catholic followers, and the mixture of religious belief and culture in the country.
The Holy See wants to promote ties with Vietnam so as to continue contributing to local society, particularly in education, health care and charity, he noted, adding that the Pope always gives special attention to Vietnam and wants the Vietnam Catholic Church to contribute to the country’s prosperity.
He also thanked the Vietnamese Government for creating favourable conditions for the non-resident representative of the Vatican to work in the country.
