Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung reaffirmed that Vietnam consistently respects and guarantees the right to freedom of belief and religion - as well as the right not to follow any religion - for all citizens.
The statement was made during a reception on the morning of April 3 at the ministry’s headquarters, where Dao Ngoc Dung welcomed Vairochana Rinpoche, a royal prince of Bhutan, along with members of the Bhutanese royal family, including Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck and Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck.
Minister Dao Ngoc Dung receives Prince Vairochana Rinpoche. Photo: Le Anh Dung
Expressing his pleasure at receiving the delegation, the minister noted that, like Bhutan, Vietnam is a multi-religious country. The Party and State of Vietnam, he said, have consistently upheld a policy of respecting and ensuring religious freedom, creating favorable conditions for religious organizations to operate within the framework of the law while promoting their positive values in national development.
Dao Ngoc Dung emphasized that Vietnam is pursuing rapid and stable growth, with the ambition of achieving double-digit economic expansion. However, human development remains the central priority.
“Our country places people at the heart of development, guided by four pillars of stability: security, social order, social welfare and safety,” he said.
He also highlighted Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to support ethnic minorities, people in remote and disadvantaged areas, and religious communities. The country, he added, has been recognized by the United Nations as a bright example of inclusive and sustainable poverty reduction.
The minister expressed admiration for Bhutan, a country widely associated with high levels of national happiness, and noted the shared aspiration of both nations to build societies centered on human well-being.
For his part, Vairochana Rinpoche conveyed his gratitude for the warm reception and affirmed that Vietnam and Bhutan share a deep commitment to peace.
Despite cultural differences, he said, both countries are united in their goal of serving people and bringing prosperity and happiness to their citizens.
On his second visit to Vietnam, the prince remarked on the country’s development and described it as a beautiful and harmonious place, with friendly and welcoming people.
Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck also expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended by the ministry and spoke highly of Dao Ngoc Dung’s leadership, noting his dedication and clear commitment to serving ethnic minorities and religious communities.
A view of the reception. Photo: Le Anh DungPrince Vairochana Rinpoche presents a gift to Minister Dao Ngoc Dung. Photo: Le Anh Dung
Minister Dao Ngoc Dung presents gifts to Prince Vairochana Rinpoche and members of the Bhutanese Royal Family. Photo: Le Anh DungMinister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung, Vairochana Rinpoche, and delegates pose for a commemorative photo. Photo: Le Anh Dung
During the meeting, both sides acknowledged that while Vietnam and Bhutan differ in geography and scale, they share profound similarities in valuing cultural traditions, spiritual life and sustainable development.
Religion, particularly Buddhism, was highlighted as playing a positive role in nurturing social ethics, strengthening community cohesion and promoting compassion and humanity in society.
Looking ahead, both sides expressed a desire to further strengthen bilateral relations, especially in the fields of religion and cultural exchange. They emphasized the importance of creating favorable conditions for Buddhist organizations in both countries to expand cooperation and share experiences.
Such collaboration, they noted, would help amplify the role of Buddhism in spreading ethical values, compassion and wisdom, contributing to sustainable development and the well-being of people.
Vairochana Rinpoche, whose full name is Vairochana Rinpoche Ngawang Jigme Jigten Wangchuck, was born on June 23, 2013. A member of Bhutan’s royal family, he holds both royal and religious significance, having been recognized by the 70th Je Khenpo of Bhutan as the reincarnation of the great translator Lotsawa Vairotsana - one of the closest disciples of Guru Padmasambhava and among the earliest figures in Tibetan Buddhism in the 8th century.
Vietnamnet.vn
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