Vietnam Celebrates 50th Anniversary of War’s End with Emphasis on Peace and National Unity
Vietnam commemorated the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War with nationwide ceremonies and reflections centered on peace, unity, and decades of post-war progress. Marking a half-century since the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975 — now known as Reunification Day — the country turned the spotlight away from the pain of conflict and toward its remarkable journey of recovery and reconciliation.
The central celebration took place in Ho Chi Minh City, where thousands gathered for a grand parade featuring veterans, youth groups, cultural performances, and military displays. High-ranking government officials, including President Tô Lâm and Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, addressed the nation with a consistent message: the past must be honored, but the future belongs to a united, peaceful, and developing Vietnam.
“This anniversary is not just a reminder of our history,” said Prime Minister Chính in his address. “It is a celebration of peace hard-earned, unity long-cherished, and a shared vision for a prosperous Vietnam that contributes to global harmony.”
The 50th anniversary events were attended by foreign dignitaries, diplomats, and international guests, reflecting Vietnam’s expanding global partnerships and its emergence as a dynamic economic player in Southeast Asia. From Hanoi to the Mekong Delta, communities across the country held cultural events, exhibitions, and memorial ceremonies recognizing both the human cost of war and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
The government emphasized themes of reconciliation and development, acknowledging the trauma of the war while also pointing to significant achievements in economic growth, poverty reduction, and modernization since reunification. Vietnam’s GDP has surged in recent decades, and the nation has positioned itself as a hub for manufacturing, trade, and tourism.
In a symbolic moment, veterans from both North and South Vietnam were seen standing side by side during the commemorations — a gesture that underscored the country’s efforts to heal old wounds and move forward collectively.
International observers noted Vietnam’s careful balance between honoring history and fostering future-focused narratives. Educational campaigns leading up to the anniversary highlighted peace education, national pride, and the importance of diplomacy in resolving global conflicts.
While the Vietnam War remains a deeply painful chapter in both Vietnamese and global memory — particularly for the millions affected by the conflict — this year’s 50th anniversary placed greater emphasis on hope, growth, and shared humanity.
From the haunting memories of war to the vibrant streets filled with red flags and music, Vietnam’s message to the world was clear: the country remembers, rebuilds, and rises — united in peace.
Source : Swifteradio.com
