Since it was introduced into Vietnam more than 2,000 years ago, Buddhism has gone through ups and downs along with the nation throughout its history, the Deputy PM said.

Over the last 30 years since its founding day, the VBS has encouraged Buddhist monks, nuns and followers to take active in production and abide by State laws and contribute to the country’s national construction and renewal process, Mr Khiem said, adding that the Party, State and people highly appreciated the VBS’s contributions to the country.

The VBS’s support for the country’s revolutionary cause and renewal process has greatly encouraged Buddhist monks, nuns and followers, he said.

In his message to Buddhist dignitaries, Most Venerable Thich Pho Tue, Patriarch of the VBS’s Patronage Council, called on them to understand clearly the nature of Buddhism tenets and join hands with the community to protect the environment and the earth.

The same day, Lord Buddha’s birthday was celebrated in many provinces nationwide.

At a ceremony held at Ngoc Chuong monastery in Vi Thanh city, in the Mekong Delta province of Hau Giang, a representative of the provincial Buddhist Sangha Executive Board read a message from the Patriarch of the VBS.

On the occasion, provincial leaders extended congratulations to provincial Buddhist monks, nuns and followers, calling on them to uphold the tradition of national and religious unity to make Hau Giang more civilised and wealthier.

A solemn celebration was held at Phap Lam pagoda in the central city of Da Nang.

The city’s Buddhist Sangha has carried out various charitable activities to help disadvantaged people. Since the beginning of the year, pagodas in the city have collected nearly VND3.8 billion for charity.

On the occasion, the Executive Board of Thua Thien-Hue provincial Buddhist Sangha will organise a road convoy of 51 carriages decorated with flowers and a release of flower garlands on the Huong (Perfume) river on the night of May 17.

The celebration was also held in the Red River Delta province of Thai Binh and the Mekong Delta province of An Giang.