Minister Dao Ngoc Dung welcomed Azerbaijani officials and called for stronger bilateral collaboration during Vesak 2025.
On the morning of May 6, Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung hosted Mr. Ramin Mammadov, Chairman of the State Committee on Religious Associations of Azerbaijan, as part of the ongoing United Nations Day of Vesak 2025.
Welcoming the Azerbaijani delegation, Minister Dung expressed his pleasure at Mr. Mammadov’s visit and participation in the international Buddhist celebration.
He noted that Vietnam recently established the Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs with the goal of better addressing issues of ethnicity and religion, while enhancing the state’s management capabilities in these areas.
Minister Dao Ngoc Dung receives Chairman Ramin Mammadov of the State Committee on Religious Associations of Azerbaijan, May 6.
Chairman Mammadov expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and reiterated the long-standing friendship between Azerbaijan and Vietnam. He emphasized that the upcoming visit by General Secretary To Lam would further solidify bilateral ties.
He also proposed that the two countries sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between their respective ministries overseeing religious and ethnic affairs. The MoU would provide a framework for mutual learning, cultural exchange, and the transmission of core values to future generations.
“Our country has a rich cultural heritage that we wish to share with the world. Likewise, we hope that countries such as Vietnam will help introduce Azerbaijani culture to global audiences. We especially hope Vietnam will support Azerbaijan’s initiatives related to religious development,” Mr. Mammadov said.
Minister Dao Ngoc Dung speaks at the meeting with Azerbaijani officials.
The Azerbaijani official also proposed establishing a dialogue forum to showcase each country’s unique religious and cultural identities.
In response, Minister Dao Ngoc Dung praised the strong relationship between the two nations and congratulated Azerbaijan on its growing focus on religious development.
“I hope the friendship between our two countries continues to flourish. I understand Azerbaijan is actively advancing religious growth, and I believe General Secretary To Lam’s visit will elevate our relationship to a new level,” Minister Dung said.
Minister Dao Ngoc Dung presents a souvenir to Chairman Ramin Mammadov.
The Minister also reflected on Vietnam’s tragic wartime past and the country’s deep appreciation for independence and religious freedom.
“We just celebrated the 50th anniversary of national reunification. That victory came at a great cost - 1.2 million martyrs, 800,000 wounded veterans, and war-related trauma that continues into the third generation.
For this reason, Vietnam cherishes its freedom and peace, including religious freedom. We fully support Azerbaijan’s proposals and look forward to establishing deeper, stronger, and more concrete cooperation in ethnic and religious affairs,” Minister Dung affirmed.
He concluded by thanking the Azerbaijani delegation for their invitation and confirmed his intention to visit Azerbaijan through diplomatic channels.
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