Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Sri Lanka's Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, and Vietnamese Ambassador Trịnh Thị Tâm (right) at their meeting on February 13. — Photo Vietnam Embassy in Sri Lanka

HÀ NỘI — Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Sri Lanka's Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, received Vietnamese Ambassador Trịnh Thị Tâm on February 13.

At the meeting, Senevi expressed his admiration for Việt Nam's remarkable economic growth and shared his excitement about translating the book Last Night I Dreamed of Peace, the English version of Nhật Ký Đặng Thùy Trâm (Đặng Thùy Trâm’s Diary), into Sinhala, one of Sri Lanka's official languages. He underscored his dedication to completing the translation to bring Việt Nam’s history closer to the Sri Lankan people, particularly the younger generation.

The minister revealed that the translation is in its final stages and publication is expected in July 2025, coinciding with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Việt Nam and Sri Lanka. He described this work as a meaningful gift to Việt Nam, a country he holds in high regard.

Tâm took this opportunity to introduce the upcoming 20th United Nations Day of Vesak, which Việt Nam will host in May. She expressed her hope that Senevi will encourage Sri Lanka's Government to send a high-level delegation to attend the event, as invited by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.

Additionally, the diplomat assessed that there remains room for bilateral collaboration in Buddhism, culture, tourism, and heritage conservation. She suggested that provinces in both countries with strengths in these fields establish cooperative relationships.

Tâm also briefed the minister on planned events by the Vietnamese Embassy in Sri Lanka this year, many of which will celebrate the two countries’ Buddhist and cultural cooperation. She proposed the ministry support and collaborate on these initiatives. — VNA/VNS