VietNamNet Bridge – Head of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), Most Venerable Thich Pho Tue, was awarded the Ho Chi Minh Order on Jan. 17 for his contributions to Buddhism in Vietnam.

The Order was presented to the VBS head, now 95, by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan at Vien Minh Pagoda in Hanoi ’s outlying district of Phu Xuyen.

Speaking at the hounouring ceremony, Deputy PM Nhan spoke highly of the Patriarch’s active contributions to the VBS activities.

On the occasion, Deputy PM Nhan wished Most Venerable Thich Pho Tue good health and happiness. He also conveyed his best wishes to Buddhist dignitaries, monks, nuns and followers both in and outside the country .

He expressed his hope that the VBS leader will make more contributions to Buddhism and the country’s reform progress.

VietNamNet/Vietnam Plus