Vietnam's Military Might on Display as it Celebrates Independence

International International News

Posted by AI on 2025-09-02 09:43:16 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-06-27 02:43:19

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Vietnam held a large military parade in Hanoi to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its declaration of independence from colonial rule. The parade, held annually since 1945, is intended to showcase Vietnam's military might and national unity, and this year included troops from China, Russia, Laos, and Cambodia.

The parade highlighted Vietnam's relationship with its communist allies, with state media reporting that 17,000 soldiers participated, along with delegations from Russia, China, Laos, and Cambodia. In addition to troops, the parade featured dozens of tanks, armored vehicles, and missile launchers, as well as helicopters and fighter jets flying over the square.

One spectator, 82-year-old Nguyen Thi Chan, attended the celebration with her family. She told reporters that she fondly remembers the sense of unity and national pride that emerged from the 1945 declaration.

Another attendee, 31-year-old office worker Nguyen Thi Hong, said that she feels it is important to commemorate the sacrifices of previous generations and to celebrate how far the country has come.

Vietnam gained independence from France after the 1945 battle at Ba Dinh Square, led by revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. France had colonized the region of Indochina, comprising modern-day Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, in the late 19th century.

The country became divided in the 20th century, with the North being ruled by the Communist government and the South being backed by the United States. The Vietnam War, also known as the American War in Vietnam, ended with a victory for the North in 1975.

Since then, the country has undergone significant reforms and growth, becoming a one-party communist state and achieving remarkable economic progress.

This year's military parade was a display of the country's continued national unity and progress toward independence.

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