Socialist Republic of Vietnam

A Vietnamese American couple that follows Hoa Hao Buddhism expressed wishes to revisit their homeland following a warm welcome by authorities during their first return after 30 years abroad.

Mr. Le Phuoc Sang told President of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front Pham The Duyet during their recent meeting in Ha Noi that he and his wife were impressed with rapid growth of the national economy, especially in his native town of Long Xuyen in the southwestern province of An Giang. Sang also said it touched his heart to see the local administration's great efforts to improve the material and spiritual living conditions of people from all walks of life, including Hoa Hao Buddhists.

For his part, Fatherland Front Leader Duyet said that the Government has issued a number of policies in favour of overseas Vietnamese and ethnic minorities as well as to encourage freedom of religion.

Duyet said he expected that the visit would help the couple better understand the national situation, especially the Government's non-discriminatory policies for Hoa Hao Buddhists.

"You are always welcomed here in Viet Nam," said the chief of the nation's largest mass organisation.

During their return home, Sang and his wife were warmly welcomed by representatives of the Hoa Hao Executive Committee in An Giang province, visited the Hoa Hao Buddhist Holy Temple, and went sightseeing in HCMC, Ha Noi and other places across the country.

The couple expressed their thanks to the Government and local administrations for creating favourable conditions to make their stay in Viet Nam comfortable.

Source: Vietnam News Agency