On April 9, 2026, at the ministry’s headquarters, the official transfer of responsibilities took place between Party Committee Secretary and Minister for the 2021–2026 term Dao Ngoc Dung and his successor for the 2026–2031 term Nguyen Dinh Khang.

The event was attended by Standing Committee members, ministry leaders, Party Committee members, and heads of departments and affiliated units.

Shaping a broader vision

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung extended his congratulations to the new minister, emphasizing the historical significance of the moment in the ministry’s formation and growth.

“In 1 year, 1 month and 8 days leading this newly established ministry, with unity and collective effort, we worked with dedication, intellect, and responsibility to achieve meaningful results. Most importantly, we have shaped a new mindset, new awareness, new working style, and a broader vision, along with greater confidence and clearer effectiveness. This forms a crucial foundation for the ministry’s future direction,” he said.

Reflecting on his career, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung shared that he felt fortunate to conclude 46 years of public service in the field of ethnic and religious affairs - a highly specialized domain where he contributed to building what he described as a shared institutional “home.”

He affirmed that the achievements and trust established affirm the correctness of the Politburo’s decision to establish the ministry.

“I am pleased that the Central Committee has chosen a highly capable successor. I believe Nguyen Dinh Khang will carry forward this responsibility with great dedication,” he added.

Expressing gratitude, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung thanked the Party Committee, leadership, and ministry staff for their support throughout his tenure, while expressing hope for continued cooperation in the new term.

Receiving the legacy

In his remarks, Mr. Nguyen Dinh Khang described the day as both joyful and significant, as he formally received a “legacy” built on notable achievements by his predecessor.

Expressing deep respect for Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung, whom he likened to a “great tree,” Mr. Nguyen Dinh Khang acknowledged the guidance and support he had received.

“With 46 years of experience, I hope he will continue to support the ministry. I also look forward to unity and collective effort across the leadership and staff to fulfill the responsibilities entrusted by the Party, State, and people,” he said.

Continuing the journey of development

More than a year earlier, on February 18, 2025, during the 9th extraordinary session of the 15th National Assembly, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung was approved as Minister for the 2021–2026 term.

The ministry itself was newly formed by restructuring the Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs and transferring state management functions on religion from the Ministry of Home Affairs, while further consolidating responsibilities related to ethnic affairs.

Upon taking office as the ministry’s first minister, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung described the field as both challenging and full of vitality, requiring immediate and decisive action.

He emphasized that the ministry must not only fulfill state management functions but also act as an extension of the Party in ethnic and religious affairs - a place where trust, aspirations, and social consensus converge.

He called for a transformation in governance thinking, guided by principles such as “think deeply, act boldly, and deliver effectively,” and “plan for ten years with each day’s work.”

Under his leadership, the sector adopted a proactive, decisive, and scientific approach, focused on innovation, grassroots engagement, and tangible outcomes for communities. This was encapsulated in the “six clarities”: clear people, clear tasks, clear timelines, clear responsibilities, clear outputs, and clear authority.

Over just more than a year in office, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung left a strong imprint, enhancing the role and standing of ethnic and religious affairs, with a consistent goal: improving both material and spiritual well-being for ethnic minorities and religious communities, ensuring respect for freedom of belief, and strengthening national unity.

On April 8, 2026, during the first session of the 16th National Assembly, Mr. Nguyen Dinh Khang, then Standing Deputy Minister, was officially appointed Minister for the 2026–2031 term, succeeding Dao Ngoc Dung.

The leadership transition represents not only continuity of governance but also the transfer of intellect, trust, and renewed aspirations. With extensive experience across various positions from local to central levels, Minister Nguyen Dinh Khang is expected to lead the sector into its next phase of development.

A meeting of gratitude and reflection

On the afternoon of April 9, the ministry also held a gathering to honor the contributions of former Minister Dao Ngoc Dung as he concluded his tenure.

In his remarks, Mr. Nguyen Dinh Khang highlighted Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung’s more than 46 years of service across multiple roles, consistently fulfilling responsibilities entrusted by the Party, State, and people.

He expressed deep appreciation for the former minister’s strategic thinking and decisive leadership, which laid critical institutional, organizational, and material foundations for the sector’s rapid progress.

“I greatly value his working style, exemplary spirit, and sense of responsibility. These are invaluable lessons in both professional and personal life,” Mr. Nguyen Dinh Khang said.

He also expressed hope that Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung would continue to support and accompany the ministry in advancing sustainable development for ethnic minority communities and safeguarding religious freedom.

In an emotional response, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung noted that the handover had been conducted thoroughly and sincerely, with both sides reviewing past achievements and identifying future priorities.

He expressed profound gratitude to Party and State leaders, including General Secretary and President To Lam, as well as to colleagues and institutions he had worked with throughout his career.

Congratulating his successor, Mr. Dao Ngoc Dung emphasized Mr. Nguyen Dinh Khang’s extensive experience and strong leadership qualities.

“I believe that with his capability, enthusiasm, and sense of responsibility, Minister Nguyen Dinh Khang will guide the ministry steadily toward new heights,” he said.