On the evening of August 29, Vietnam marked the 79th anniversary of its National Day with a grand ceremony at the Ho Guom Theatre in Hanoi.
The event, presided over by General Secretary and President To Lam and First Lady Ngo Phuong Ly, was attended by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, and other leaders, former leaders of the Party, State, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front, as well as representatives from central agencies and ministries.
The celebration also saw the participation of ambassadors, chargé d'affaires, and heads of international organizations in Hanoi, along with their spouses. Notably, the event included the presence of revolutionaries, Vietnamese heroic mothers, intellectuals, and labor representatives.
During his speech, General Secretary and President To Lam highlighted the historic significance of September 2, 1945, when President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam's independence at Ba Dinh Square, marking the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam).
Over the past 79 years, the Vietnamese people have remained united, achieving numerous victories both domestically and internationally. President To Lam emphasized that Vietnam has evolved from a war-torn nation into a symbol of peace, stability, and hospitality, attracting investors and tourists from around the world.
From an underdeveloped economy, Vietnam has risen to become one of the top 40 economies globally, with trade volumes ranking among the top 20 nations. The country is a vital link in 16 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) connecting with 60 key economies worldwide.
Once isolated and embargoed, Vietnam now enjoys diplomatic relations with 193 countries, including strategic and comprehensive partnerships with 30 nations, all members of the United Nations Security Council, and major powers. Vietnam is also an active member of over 70 regional and international organizations.
"With the well-being and happiness of our people as our goal, Vietnam is recognized by the United Nations and international friends as a success story, a beacon of poverty reduction, and a nation that continuously improves the material and spiritual lives of its citizens," President To Lam stated.
The ceremony also featured the solemn national flag-raising and anthem ceremony, followed by an art program celebrating Vietnam's 79 years of independence. The program, performed by the Vietnam Symphony Orchestra, the Vietnam National Opera and Ballet, and the Ho Guom Theater, included a selection of renowned Vietnamese musical compositions that honored President Ho Chi Minh and celebrated the country and its people.
In his speech, Ambassador Saadi Salama, representing the diplomatic corps in Vietnam, noted that this year's National Day coincides with the upcoming 70th anniversary of the liberation of Hanoi, a significant milestone in Vietnam's history.
Ambassador Salama emphasized the lasting impact of the historic moment 79 years ago at Ba Dinh Square, which continues to inspire nations worldwide in their pursuit of independence and justice. He also expressed deep respect for the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, recalling him as a leader of integrity, humility, and wisdom.
Despite global economic challenges, Ambassador Salama praised Vietnam's steady progress in economic, cultural, and social development, driven by people-centered policies. He also highlighted Vietnam's "bamboo diplomacy," a symbol of flexibility and resilience, which has strengthened the nation's international standing.
Ambassador Salama reiterated the diplomatic corps' commitment to furthering the multifaceted cooperation between Vietnam and countries around the world, fostering friendship and collaboration on a global scale.
The celebration concluded with a special artistic performance, commemorating Vietnam's 79 years of independence. The program featured stirring renditions of iconic Vietnamese songs, including "Giai điệu Tổ quốc" (Melody of the Fatherland), "Bài ca hy vọng" (Song of Hope), "Tự nguyện" (Voluntary), and "Bài ca Hồ Chí Minh" (Song of Ho Chi Minh) leaving a lasting impression on the audience.