Tam Bảo, a place where Buddha is worshipped. VNS Photos Thúy Tình

HÀ NỘI — Trúc Lâm Cô Tô, the first Buddhist Pagoda in Cô Tô Island, was inaugurated yesterday to enrich the spiritual and cultural life of the islanders.

The Buddhist Sangha of the northern province of Quảng Ninh in collaboration with the Cô Tô District People’s Committee started construction last year.

The pagoda includes Tam Bảo, a 270sq.m place where Buddha can be worshipped and a pavilion to worship the Mother Goddesses.

Representatives of the Buddhist Sangha of the northern province of Quảng Ninh and the Cô Tô District People’s Committee attended the inauguration ceremony.

“Cô Tô Island has a strategic position in the north-western sea territory of the country, it plays an important role in national defence,” said Nguyễn Việt Hùng, vice chairman of the Cô Tô District People’s Committee.

“Building the pagoda is like building a cultural landmark, affirms sovereignty and helps strengthen the stability in religious security in the region.”

“On the other hand, with beautiful pristine beaches, Cô Tô is one among the attractive destinations of Quảng Ninh Province. The Government is focused on developing tourism in Cô Tô and helping in the growth of local economy,” said Hùng.

“Located next to President Hồ Chí Minh Monument and Temple, the pagoda will be a must-visit place for tourists in Cô Tô.”

The entrance of the Trúc Lâm Cô Tô Pagoda.

Hùng stressed that 80 per cent of islanders are Buddhists, so building the pagoda meets the demand of the people and enriches their cultural lives. — VNS