Mr Duyet made the remark when he paid a visit to Catholic dignitaries at the Hanoi Archbishop Office on December 23. He said the country has recorded great achievements partly thanks to the contributions from religious followers.

Archbishop of the Hanoi Archdiocese Ngo Quang Kiet expressed thanks to the VFF for its support and assistance to Catholic followers' religious activities.

He said the Ordinance on Beliefs and Religions has facilitated religious practice and the Christmas has become a festival for all people nationwide.

Meanwhile, authorities of the Central Highlands provinces of Dak Nong and Dak Lak have visited and presented gifts to Christian dignitaries and followers on the occasion of Christmas.

Leaders of Dak Nong province praised Protestant clergymen and followers for working together in eliminating poverty, boosting socio-economic growth, maintaining political security and preserving the traditional cultures of ethnic minorities in the Central Highlands.

They expressed their hopes that the 40,000 Protestant clergymen and followers in Dak Nong province will be united not only in developing household economies but also in preventing plots to shatter the unity bloc.

During their meeting with Dak Lak province authorities, dignitaries thanked provincial leaders for helping them practise religious activities.