On April 30, 2025, Ho Chi Minh City witnessed a grand parade celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Day of Southern Liberation and National Reunification, which marks the significant historical event of Vietnam's unification in 1975. The event was a blend of patriotic fervor and military precision, featuring 25 military and militia units, alongside contingents from the armed forces of Laos, Cambodia, and China, showcasing regional solidarity.
As dawn broke over the city, preparations were underway for a celebration that would draw thousands of spectators. The streets were alive with excitement, as many people had camped out overnight to secure their spots for the parade. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of pride and reflection on the journey Vietnam has undertaken since its reunification.
According to the French Ambassador to Vietnam, Olivier Brochet, the event was not just a celebration of the past but also a testament to Vietnam's dynamic role in the region today. He remarked, "A new page in Vietnam's history was written with April 30, 1975, a page of the country regaining its unity." Brochet also noted the impressive turnout, stating that hundreds of thousands had slept on the streets in anticipation of the festivities.
As the parade commenced, the military units displayed their strength and discipline, marching in formation and showcasing various branches of the armed forces. This included representations from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as specialized units like the electronic warfare troops and peacekeeping forces. The event was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
In a touching moment, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Vietnam, Kanat Tumysh, expressed his pride in being born in the same year Vietnam achieved its unification. He conveyed his heartfelt congratulations, stating, "This anniversary is a significant milestone, and I wish the Vietnamese people a prosperous future as they enter a new 'golden age' of development." Tumysh emphasized the importance of unity, reflecting on the deep cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Vietnam.
The parade was also marked by the presence of foreign dignitaries, including the UK Ambassador Iain Frew and the Consul General of the UK in Ho Chi Minh City, Alexandra Smith. Smith shared her experience attending the parade, stating, "It was an honor to be part of this grand celebration. Vietnam has risen strongly after the war, becoming a dynamically developing economy, with Ho Chi Minh City at its forefront."
The day was not just about military displays; it was also a celebration of culture and community. Traditional music and dance performances punctuated the event, showcasing the rich heritage of Vietnam. The festive atmosphere was palpable, with families and friends gathering to commemorate this historic occasion.
In addition to the parade, various events were held across the city, highlighting Vietnam's achievements over the past 50 years. The government has implemented new policies effective from May 2025, including a controlled Fintech experiment mechanism, aimed at fostering innovation and economic growth. This aligns with the National Assembly's Resolution on the National Target Program for cultural development, emphasizing the importance of culture in Vietnam's ongoing development.
As Vietnam looks toward the future, the words of the ambassadors resonate deeply. The UK’s Frew remarked on the importance of continued diplomatic relations, stating that the UK is committed to strengthening its partnership with Vietnam for mutual prosperity and security. Meanwhile, the German Ambassador, Helga Margarete Barth, highlighted Germany's position as Vietnam's largest trading partner in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching over 20 billion USD in 2024, marking a significant growth in their economic relationship.
Barth noted, "This year, we celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, which have evolved from initial trade ties to a comprehensive partnership across various sectors." She expressed optimism for future cooperation, particularly in areas such as technology and sustainable development.
Indonesia's Ambassador Denny Abdi also emphasized the importance of youth development as a foundation for future cooperation, noting that bilateral trade had doubled to 16.7 billion USD in 2024. He stated, "The upgrade of our relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in March 2025 opens up tremendous opportunities for deeper economic cooperation."
As Vietnam continues to navigate its path of growth and development, the support from international partners remains crucial. The Swedish Ambassador, Johan Ndisi, highlighted Sweden's commitment to being a reliable partner in Vietnam's digital transformation, stating that the goal of becoming a high-income nation by 2045 requires strong governance and effective public administration reforms.
In summary, the 50th anniversary of the Day of Southern Liberation and National Reunification was not only a celebration of Vietnam's past but also a reflection of its aspirations for the future. With strong international partnerships and a commitment to development, Vietnam is poised to continue its journey as a vibrant and influential player on the global stage.
