PM Phan Van Khai lauded contributions of Catholic community
Ha Noi, Dec. 29 (VNA) -- Prime Minister Phan Van Khai has lauded contributions by more than 6 million local Catholic followers to the national development in 2001.
The praise came during a New Year meeting between the PM and bishops members of the Viet Nam Episcopal Council in Ha Noi on Dec. 29.
PM Khai stressed the national unity tradition has been defined at the ninth Party Congress as a source of strength and a great momentum for national construction and defence. Religious unity plays an important role in national unity, contributing to the success of national renovation, Khai told his guests.
He said he hoped that the Episcopal Council will mobilise Catholic believers to bring into full play the fine tradition of the nation, actively engaging in production activities and leading "good civic and religious lives".
Bishop Nguyen Van Hoa, President of the Viet Nam Episcopal Council, took this occasion to thank the Party and Government for their concern for the Catholic community. The bishops expressed their wish to take part in the fight against hunger and poverty and in preserving the cultural identity of the nation.--VNA
