Vietnam Holds Largest Military Parade in Decades for 80th Independence Anniversary

Vietnam celebrated the 80th anniversary of its independence with the largest military parade in decades, held in Hanoi at Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945. The event featured nearly 16,000 soldiers, advanced military equipment including tanks, missile systems, warships, submarines, and aircraft, and participation from honor guards representing China, Russia, Laos, and Cambodia, showcasing Vietnam's international partnerships. Top leaders, including Communist Party General Secretary To Lam, emphasized the nation's aspiration to become a powerful and prosperous country by 2045, while paying tribute to those who sacrificed for independence. Cultural programs highlighted Vietnam's journey of resilience, patriotism, and development under the Communist Party, drawing attendance from domestic leaders and foreign dignitaries from countries such as Cambodia, China, Cuba, Belarus, Russia, and Laos. The celebrations also reflected Vietnam's economic progress, integration into global trade networks, and commitment to sustainable development goals and climate change response. The festivities underscored both Vietnam's historical struggles for sovereignty and its current status as a significant regional and global player.