Tens of thousands of people gather in Hanoi to celebrate declaration of independence from French colonial rule.
Published On 2 Sep 2025
Vietnam commemorated the 80th anniversary of its declaration of independence from France with a grand military parade held in the capital city of Hanoi.
A massive crowd of more than tens of thousands demonstrated national unity and patriotism in Vietnam, a country governed by a Communist regime.
During the festivities at Ba Dinh Square – the historic location where Ho Chi Minh proclaimed independence from foreign dominance on September 2, 1945 – authorities displayed a broad range of military hardware, such as missiles, helicopters, and fighter jets.
It was reported that almost 16,000 soldiers took part in the parade, which included honor guards from countries such as China, Russia, Laos, and Cambodia.
In his address, To Lam, the Communist Party of Vietnam’s general secretary, paid homage to the martyrs who fought for independence and reasserted the party’s ambition for Vietnam to become a “powerful, prosperous, and joyful nation” by 2045.
“In this solemn moment, we pay our respects to our ancestors,” Lam stated.
“Our nation has surmounted countless hardships and challenges. Our land has evolved from a colony into an independent and unified nation, striding confidently towards modernity.”
Vu Thi Trang, a university student, shared her experience of reserving a spot to witness the celebrations two days in advance.
“A deep sense of patriotism compelled me to be here,” the 19-year-old stated to AFP.
“I am thankful for the sacrifices of previous generations, which provided us with peace and freedom to grow and thrive.”
A massive crowd of more than tens of thousands demonstrated national unity and patriotism in Vietnam, a country governed by a Communist regime.
During the festivities at Ba Dinh Square – the historic location where Ho Chi Minh proclaimed independence from foreign dominance on September 2, 1945 – authorities displayed a broad range of military hardware, such as missiles, helicopters, and fighter jets.
It was reported that almost 16,000 soldiers took part in the parade, which included honor guards from countries such as China, Russia, Laos, and Cambodia.
In his address, To Lam, the Communist Party of Vietnam’s general secretary, paid homage to the martyrs who fought for independence and reasserted the party’s ambition for Vietnam to become a “powerful, prosperous, and joyful nation” by 2045.
“In this solemn moment, we pay our respects to our ancestors,” Lam stated.
“Our nation has surmounted countless hardships and challenges. Our land has evolved from a colony into an independent and unified nation, striding confidently towards modernity.”
Vu Thi Trang, a university student, shared her experience of reserving a spot to witness the celebrations two days in advance.
“A deep sense of patriotism compelled me to be here,” the 19-year-old stated to AFP.
“I am thankful for the sacrifices of previous generations, which provided us with peace and freedom to grow and thrive.”
