Deputy PM pays Christmas visits to Catholics organisations

During his visit to the Hanoi Archdiocese, the Evangelical Church of Vietnam (North), and the Vietnam Catholic Solidarity Committee, Binh shared updates on global and domestic developments in 2024, emphasizing that Vietnam successfully overcame challenges and obtained encouraging results in socio-economic development, with an estimated GDP growth rate of about 7% and macroeconomic stability maintained.

He reiterated the Party and State’s commitment to improving the lives of the Catholic community, and at the same time encouraged Catholics to focus on goodwill, fulfill their civic duties, and contribute to family, economic, and national development, fostering a prosperous and powerful Vietnam.

In preparation for the 14th National Party Congress, he outlined major policies aimed at driving the nation forward, including streamlining the administrative apparatus for greater efficiency and implementing significant projects like the North-South high-speed railway and renewable energy development.

The Deputy PM extended his best wishes to Archbishop Joseph Vu Van Thien, Archbishop of the Hanoi Archdiocese and Vice President of the Vietnam Catholic Bishops’ Conference, as well as other bishops, priests, and the Catholic community. He expressed hope for their continued contributions to the Church, the Catholic faithful, and the country's development. He also unveiled the agreement between Vietnam and the Vatican to establish a Permanent Representative Office of the Holy See in Vietnam.

At the Evangelical Church of Vietnam (North), Binh expressed joy at the improving lives of Evangelical Christians. He affirmed the Party and State’s respect for religious practices and encouraged the Church, its leader, and pastors to guide the faithful toward goodwill and harmony, aligning faith with national progress.

On behalf of the Party and State, he wished the Church leaders and congregation a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. He called for the continued unity of all religious communities to build a strong and thriving Vietnam.

He also welcomed the Church’s suggestions to strengthen national solidarity, foster socio-economic development, ensure security and defense, and enhance the well-being of citizens.

During his visit to the Committee for Solidarity of Vietnamese Catholics, Deputy PM Binh acknowledged the committee’s significant contributions to fostering national solidarity, uniting not only the Catholic community but also bridging connections between religious and secular communities, as well as between Vietnam and the international community.

He emphasized that this solidarity has been a cornerstone of Vietnam’s strength, leading to victories in wars, achievements in national construction, and resilience against severe pandemics and natural disasters.

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the role of the Catholic community, particularly the Committee for Solidarity of Vietnamese Catholics, in contributing to the country’s progress. He expressed optimism for a future marked by unity and strength as Vietnam advances into a new era of prosperity and development.