Việt Nam Fatherland Front President Trần Thanh Mẫn (right) presents a gift to Hòa Hảo Buddhist representatives. — VNA/VNS Photo Công Mạo

AN GIANG — The Party, State and Việt Nam Fatherland Front (VFF) always value the great contributions made by Hòa Hảo Buddhist dignitaries and followers to the nation as well as the national great unity, VFF President Trần Thanh Mẫn affirmed on Thursday.

Speaking at a ceremony to mark the sect’s 80th founding anniversary (the 18th day of the fifth lunar month) in the southern province of An Giang, Mẫn said that after eight decades of development of the sect, Hòa Hảo Buddhist dignitaries and followers had made important contributions to the past struggle for national liberation and current nation-building cause.

He hailed their efforts to promote the tradition of patriotism, implement the Party’s policies and respect the State’s laws, and actively participate in movements launched by the VFF Central Committee.

The official also spoke highly of Hòa Hảo Buddhists’ participation in charitable activities, and voiced his hope that the sect will contribute more to further develop the nation.

Nguyễn Tấn Đạt, head of Central Executive Board of Hòa Hảo Buddhist Sangha, affirmed that they would maintain efforts to, together with other religions, build a beautiful, prosperous and civilised Việt Nam.

The same day, the front leader visited and presented gifts to 10 Hòa Hảo Buddhist policy beneficiaries in Phú Tân District.

Hòa Hảo Buddhism now has over 2 million followers living in 22 provinces and cities.

During 2014-19, the sect’s dignitaries and followers have contributed nearly VNĐ2 trillion (US$86.5 million) to social activities. — VNS