Seminar marks Sangha's birthday

HA NOI — A seminar was held in HCM City yesterday to mark the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS).

The seminar, entitled "Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, 30 years of development accompaning the nation" drew participation of nearly 200 Buddhist followers and researchers nationwide.

The VBS Executive Council affirmed in its report that the nearly 2,000 years of Buddhism in Viet Nam was an important part of the nation's history, adding that Vietnamese Buddhism had actively contributed to fighting foreign invaders and in bringing peace, independence and nation building.

The report said Government decrees and ordinances on belief and religion were the basis for religious activities exist successfuly and the achievements of Buddhism over the past 30 years were due to monks, nuns and followers of various Buddhist organisations and sects.

Venerable Thich Gia Quang, Deputy General Secretary of the VBS Executive Council, said the VBS had joined hands to address difficulties in the national renewal process, including environmental issues, climate change, social and moral problems. — VNS