President Triet made the statement on Feb. 25 during his working visit to the Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang - home to a large number of Khmer ethnic minority people.

He spent considerable time meeting and working with dignitaries and followers at Mahatup and Khleang pagodas and the Pali school, who said that they receive due attention from authorities at all levels and enjoy good conditions for organising religious activities and improving living standard. In 2008 alone, more than VND52 billion was allocated to restore and upgrade pagodas and buy new boats and textbooks for students.

The State President praised patriotic dignitaries, monks and nuns, as well as religious followers in Soc Trang for their efforts in strengthening solidarity among the religious and non-religious alike, as well as between Khmer people and other ethnic groups. Mr Triet spoke highly of their efforts to ensure politic stability and prevent unethical practices undermining the State. He affirmed the State’s consistent policy to offer equal treatment to all ethnic groups and religions.

While working with key provincial leaders, President Triet stressed the need to improve living conditions for the Khmer people and help them preserve their traditional culture.

He noted that Soc Trang has great potential to attract investment and revamp its economic structure, particularly after the Tra Noc airport is put into operation. He also asked the province to lure more foreign investors and make use of its advantages to develop aquaculture, promote seacooking processing and expand its shrimp breeding area with a vision toward higher quality and greater productivity.

VietNamNet/VOV