Hanoi: Vietnam marked the 80th anniversary of its declaration of independence from French colonial rule with a grand military parade in the capital city of Hanoi on Tuesday, showcasing national pride and military strength.
Tens of thousands of citizens gathered at Ba Dinh Square, where revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh first proclaimed Vietnam’s independence on September 2, 1945.
The square was filled with patriotic fervor as military bands, honor guards, and soldiers marched in tight formations, reflecting the discipline and unity of the Communist-led nation.
The parade featured a wide array of military equipment, including advanced missiles, helicopters, and fighter jets, underscoring Vietnam’s ongoing modernization of its armed forces. Nearly 16,000 troops participated in the event, with international contingents from China, Russia, Laos, and Cambodia joining the celebrations — a display of diplomatic ties and regional solidarity.
Vietnamese President Luong Cuong addressed the nation, emphasizing the country's journey over the past eight decades and announcing a sweeping amnesty. A total of 13,920 prisoners, including 66 foreign nationals, will be released early in honor of the national milestone.
The parade concluded with a formal address by Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Hòa Bình, who thanked the armed forces, international guests, and the Vietnamese people for making the 80th Independence Day a historic and successful celebration.
