Bodh Gaya: Vietnam’s foreign minister, Nguyen Manh Cuong, visited Mahabodhi Temple in Bihar’s Bodh Gaya on Sunday as part of an advance delegation preparing for the Vietnamese president’s upcoming visit.
Accompanied by Vietnam’s ambassador to India and 14 senior officials, Cuong’s visit focused on a detailed review of logistical and ceremonial arrangements ahead of the presidential trip scheduled for May 7.
Officials said the delegation conducted a thorough inspection of the temple complex, examining the proposed route, designated points, ceremonial protocols and rituals, as well as arrangements for the presentation of mementos. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring the smooth execution of the high-level visit.
During their time inside the temple’s sanctum, resident monks performed special prayers and chanting, invoking blessings for the visiting dignitaries. The ceremony added a solemn tone to the visit at one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites.
The delegation also toured key parts of the premises, including the revered Bodhi Tree, where Siddhartha Gautama is believed to have attained enlightenment. Visitors were introduced to the site’s religious and historical significance.
As a gesture of respect, members of the delegation were presented with Bodhi leaf mementos.
The visit underscores the importance of the Mahabodhi Temple, a Unesco world heritage site, as a global symbol of peace, compassion and spiritual heritage, while highlighting growing diplomatic and cultural engagement between India and Vietnam.
