At the meetings, he wished Catholic and Protestant dignitaries and followers a merry and happy Christmas and briefed them on the country’s socio-economic situation.

The Government leader hailed Catholic and Protestant followers for their contributions to the achievements and hoped that they would continue to contribute to national construction and defense.

Mr. Phuc also lauded the ties between the archdiocese and the municipal authorities in relevant activities.

The Party and State will give more importance to the freedom of belief and religions, building a democratic, civilized and united country, asserted the Deputy PM.

Cardinal Pham Minh Man, Archbishop of the Ho Chi Minh City Archdiocese made a brief on the Ho Chi Minh City Archdiocese’s operation over the past time, saying the archdiocese has always actively coordinated with the local authorities to support people living in difficulties.

Pastor Phan Vinh Cu, head of the General Confederation, thanked the Party and State for its assistance to the general confederation’s operations.

Earlier, on December 20, the Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee visited and extended Christmas greetings to Christian dignitaries and followers.

At the meeting, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Le Phuoc Thanh briefed Catholics and Protestants on the province’s political, socio-economic, national defence and security situation in 2013.

He hailed the dignitaries’ contributions to encourage Catholic and Protestant followers to take part in patriotic emulation movements, raise the spirit of solidarity and engage in the locality’s economic development, especially their efforts to overcome the consequences of devastating natural disasters this year.