In a meeting with Bishop Vu Dinh Hieu, Mai recognised the contributions of the diocese in local socio-economic development, which has helped to strengthen the national solidarity bloc.
She affirmed that the Party and State always respect and guarantee the freedom of religion, meet the legitimate needs of religious organisations and create conditions for people who practise religion to enhance their standard of living.
In the joy of the birth of Christ, the head of the mass mobilisation commission expects that Catholic dignitaries and adherents will become more united, adequately implement the Party and State policies and follow the Pope’s teachings in order to build and defend the country.
For his part, Bishop Vu Dinh Hieu thanked the Party and State for their attention and stated that the diocese always works with the local authorities to help parishioners improve their income.
He added that, in many places, Catholics have volunteered to donate their land to build roads and other public facilities.
The northern province of Nam Dinh is home to 720 parishes with roughly 470,000 Catholics.
