On December 10, the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of Defense hosted a meeting with distinguished Vietnamese veterans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People's Army (VPA) and the 35th anniversary of All-People's National Defense Day.

The event was attended by leaders of the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of Defense, Heroic Vietnamese Mothers, Heroes of the People's Armed Forces, Labor Heroes, representatives of the Vietnam Veterans Association, leaders from 63 provincial and municipal veterans' associations, and 300 outstanding veterans from across the country.

General Phan Van Giang, Minister of Defense, expressed his joy at welcoming veterans from all over Vietnam to Hanoi during this momentous occasion and the approach of the 2025 New Year.

General Giang provided an overview of global, regional, and domestic developments, detailing the schemes and actions of hostile forces and the prominent achievements in military and defense efforts in 2024. He also outlined the key tasks and directions for 2025.

Among the highlights for December are several significant activities:

The formation of Corps 34 by merging Corps 3 and Corps 4.

A national seminar commemorating 80 years of the VPA’s establishment, combat, and growth.

A meeting of the Central Military Commission.

Welcoming foreign delegations to the 2nd Vietnam International Defense Exhibition.

The exhibition, scheduled for December 19–22, will host military leaders from nearly 40 countries and feature over 400 booths - double the size of the first exhibition in 2022. Participating nations include those with advanced economies and significant military capabilities.

General Giang emphasized that this event presents a golden opportunity to attract talent and expertise from global defense corporations like Boeing, Airbus, and Lockheed Martin. "Through these partnerships, we aim to produce strategic-level weapons while strengthening our human resource pool," he noted.

General Giang affirmed that the VPA's 80-year history of victories and achievements is deeply rooted in the trust and support of the Party, State, and people, as well as the close coordination of central and local agencies, including the Vietnam Veterans Association.

He praised veterans for their unwavering collaboration with the Ministry of Defense and their valuable insights, which have significantly contributed to military policies and strategies.

General Giang called on veterans to continue providing support, encouragement, and guidance to inspire military personnel and bolster the Central Military Commission, Ministry of Defense, and the broader armed forces.

Lieutenant General Be Xuan Truong, Chairman of the Vietnam Veterans Association, acknowledged the association’s efforts to overcome challenges, promote unity, and fulfill its missions.

Veterans have actively contributed to building strong political systems and advancing socio-economic development, earning high praise from local authorities and the public.

The association remains steadfast in its mission to develop a robust organization, foster capable and politically resilient members, and preserve the spirit of Uncle Ho’s soldiers.

Tran Thuong