Vietnam President Luong Cuong on Tuesday lauded India’s gesture of sending Holy Buddha Relics to Vietnam, calling it a testament to the growing spiritual and cultural ties between the two nations.

President Cuong, alongside India’s Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, paid homage to the sacred relics brought from Sarnath near Kashi to the Thanh Tam Pagoda at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City’s Binh Chanh District.

Vietnam’s Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs, along with senior Politburo and Party officials from Ho Chi Minh City, also offered their respects to the relics, underlining the significance of the occasion.

Earlier in the day, Rijiju addressed the opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City, an event also attended by President Cuong, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the Sangharaja of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Thich Tri Quang, and other international dignitaries.

Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rijiju highlighted the relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings in addressing modern global challenges. He also referenced India’s Mission LiFE initiative—Lifestyle for Environment—which draws inspiration from Buddhist philosophy to promote sustainable living.

“The enshrinement of Lord Buddha’s sacred relics in Vietnam has deeply moved countless hearts,” Rijiju posted on X. “I spoke on how India continues to live by the timeless wisdom of the Buddha, anchoring sustainability, peace and compassion in today’s world.”

The Holy Relics were brought to Vietnam on May 2 by an Indian delegation led by Rijiju, which included Andhra Pradesh Minister Kandula Durgesh, senior monks, and officials. After being displayed at Thanh Tam Pagoda, the relics will also be taken to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21.

Rijiju also toured an exhibition showcasing Indian sculptures of Lord Buddha and the digital restoration of Buddhist monuments in India. A comparative exhibition of Buddhist art and sculpture from India and Vietnam illustrated the centuries-old cultural and spiritual links between the two countries.