Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defense has extended invitations to the defense leaders of China, Laos, and Cambodia, along with delegations of military personnel, to participate in a grand military parade and procession marking the 50th anniversary of national reunification.

On the morning of April 1, Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien, Deputy Minister of National Defense, held a working session with the defense attachés of China, Laos, and Cambodia currently stationed in Vietnam.

General Chien shared that Vietnam is actively preparing to commemorate the 50th anniversary of reunification - a momentous political event for the country, and also a shared celebration for international friends who provided selfless and invaluable support during Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle. Vietnam remains deeply grateful for the tremendous assistance, particularly from China, Laos, and Cambodia.

The Ministry of National Defense expressed strong hope and confidence that the participation of these three neighboring countries will contribute significantly to the event’s success and further underscore the bond of solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and its immediate neighbors.

In recent years, defense cooperation between Vietnam and the three countries has continued to grow in areas such as delegation exchanges, training, military-to-military collaboration, and border defense diplomacy.

The defense attachés of China, Laos, and Cambodia affirmed that they would promptly report the invitation to their respective ministries and provide strategic recommendations to facilitate the proposed cooperation.

Earlier, during a rehearsal inspection on March 25, General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense, noted that the armed forces of countries that once fought alongside Vietnam in its resistance war against the U.S. had expressed their desire to participate in the parade alongside the Vietnam People’s Army.

The Minister emphasized that this joyous occasion is not only one of national pride for Vietnam and its heroic military but also a shared celebration with global friends who support peace and unity.

“This is something we hold in the highest regard. It’s a tribute to the contributions of all peace-loving people around the world - not just during our years of division and war, but even now, half a century after reunification, their affection remains unchanged. That loyalty is truly meaningful,” said General Phan Van Giang.

The commemorative parade and procession marking 50 years since the reunification of Vietnam will be held on the morning of April 30 in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring more than 13,000 participants. The military parade segment will include 35 marching blocks from the armed forces and police, coordinated by the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Public Security. The civilian procession will be organized by the city.

The event will include the firing of 21 ceremonial cannon shots to the national anthem, a flyover by the Air Force, parade floats bearing the national emblem, flags of the Communist Party and the nation, a vehicle carrying a portrait of President Ho Chi Minh, and symbolic displays commemorating the 50th anniversary of reunification.

Tran Thuong