BAC NINH — Foreign ambassadors to Viet Nam are helped to gain more understanding about the host country's Buddhism and culture through a visit to the Phat Tich Pagoda in the northern province of Bac Ninh on Saturday.
In the trip, the ambassadors were accompanied by their spouses, diplomats, and representatives from international and non-governmental organisations.
The Phat Tich (Buddha's Trace) Pagoda, built under the Ly dynasty (1010-1225), is the only one in the country that reserved a space for exhibiting documents and relics featuring Buddhist culture.
It is also famed for housing valuable Buddhist relics and distinctive sculptural works, especially the giant statue of Buddha Amitabha, which is a typical example of Viet Nam's traditional sculpture.
During the visit, the diplomats and their entourage enjoyed performances of quan ho (love duets), which has been recognised by UNESCO as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage.
President of the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organisations Vu Xuan Hong said the visit is an annual activity that looks to help foreign friends understand more about Viet Nam's culture and history, thus promoting friendship and mutual understanding between Viet Nam and other countries worldwide. — VNS