He said in the message that the Vietnamese government is ready to host the conference for the sake of peace, democracy, development and social advancement.

PM Dung also said, “Vietnam always respects and guarantees the rights to freedom of religion and worship of the people. The community of Buddhists in Vietnam has been long established and upholds the tradition of unity with the people and the fatherland.”

Around 1,500 dignitaries from 61 countries are participating in the fourth four-day International Buddhist Conference started Saturday in Nakha Pathorn province, 50 km northwest of Bangkok.

The world is set to celebrate Buddha’s birthday worldwide next Wednesday and Thursday.