President attends Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc pagoda inauguration

State President Truong Tan Sang attended an inaugural ceremony for the Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc pagoda in Dam Thuy commune, the northern border province of Cao Bang, on December 15.

Scene at the inauguration ceremony of Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc pagoda. (Photo: VNA)

The event is part of activities the State President has involved during his visit to the province on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army (PVA) and the 25th All People’s Defence Day (December 22).

Late President Ho Chi Minh founded the Vietnam People’s Army in Cao Bang on December 22, 70 years ago.

The construction of the traditional Vietnamese pagoda overlooking the Ban Gioc waterfall started in June 2013, costing around 18 billion VND (857,000 USD) donated by individuals and organisations.

On the day, the President also attended the opening ceremony of the Saigon-Ban Goc Resort located in the commune.

The four-star resort developed by Saigon Tourist Holding Company includes 80 four-star hotel rooms, villas, a 200-seat conference hall, and a recreation area, covering 31 ha.

The Saigon-Ban Gioc resort, lying on a historically special site, is part of a cooperation programme between Ho Chi Minh City and Cao Bang province.

At the ceremony, the President commended the contractors’ efforts, saying the facilities will enhance the spiritual and material life of local residents and turn the Ban Gioc area into a key national tourist site.

(Source: VNA)