Laos Buddhist-Socialist Republic: High-Ranking Brunei Delegation lays wreath at Unknown Soldier Memorial! (4.10.2023)

His Highness Somdek Suntan Haji Hassanan Bongei of Brunei Darussalam, accompanied by a high-ranking delegation including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Mr. Selimxay Kormasit, visited the Laos People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) from October 2nd-4th, 2023. During their visit, they laid a wreath at the Niranam Warrior (Red Star) Monument on the morning of October 3rd in Vientiane, the capital city. The act was a tribute to the Laotian Marxist-Leninist Martyrs, remembering their sacrifices in establishing the Laotian People’s Democratic Republic on December 2nd, 1975.

DPRK: Churches and Religious Life in Pyongyang! (23.3.2023) 

North Korea has three Christian Churches – all located in the capital – Pyongyang. Among them are the Qigu (七谷) or ‘Seven Valleys’ Church and the Fengxiu (凤岫) or ‘Phoenix Mountain Peak’ Church – which belong to Protestantism. The Jiangzhong (奖忠) or ‘Reward Loyalty’ Church belongs to the Catholic Church – which has a history of more than ten years (writing in 2005). In addition, the first Orthodox Church is still under construction. North Korea has around 13,000 Protestants and about 3,000 Catholics. Every Sunday – all Christian and Catholic believers go to these established Church – or nearby House Churches. Religious activities – such as worship or mass – are ‘protected’ and ‘guaranteed’ under the Socialist Constitution of the DPRK! Indeed, the above photograph (dated 17.7.2005) features a female ‘Deacon’ collecting donations within the ‘Fengxiu’ (Protestant) Church! 

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