On October 12, 2025, Vietnam marked two significant milestones in its political and military history, underscoring both the nation’s commitment to future development and its reverence for a storied past. In Hanoi, the 1st Congress of the Government Party Committee for the 2025-2030 term convened its preparatory session at the National Convention Center. Meanwhile, in Nghe An province, the Party Committee and Military Command of Military Region 4 held a solemn ceremony to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the region’s armed forces and to receive the prestigious Ho Chi Minh Order. Both events drew high-ranking officials, reflected on achievements, and set the stage for the years ahead.
At dawn in Hanoi, the air was thick with anticipation as 453 official delegates—representing over 209,000 party members from more than 2,200 grassroots party organizations—gathered at the National Convention Center. According to the Vietnam News Agency, about 120 guest delegates joined the assembly, highlighting the national significance of the occasion. The session was chaired by Pham Minh Chinh, a Politburo member, Secretary of the Government Party Committee, and Prime Minister, whose leadership has been central to recent government reforms.
Before the formalities began, delegates paid homage to the nation’s founding father and fallen heroes, laying wreaths and offering incense at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Martyrs’ Monument on Bac Son Street. This gesture, as reported by the official Party newspaper, set a tone of solemnity and gratitude, linking the present with the sacrifices of the past.
The Congress’s theme, emblazoned on banners and echoed in speeches, was unambiguous: “Building a clean, strong Government Party Committee, united, exemplary, pioneering, innovative, accelerating breakthroughs, developing the country quickly and sustainably in the era of becoming a rich, strong, civilized, prosperous, and happy nation.” The motto—“Solidarity - Innovation - Democracy - Discipline - Creativity - Integration - Development”—served as both a rallying cry and a checklist for the tasks ahead.
This was no ordinary party congress. As noted by VGP News, it was the first of its kind under a new organizational model, scheduled to span two days, October 12 and 13. The agenda was ambitious: delegates would review the achievements and challenges of the 2020-2025 term, scrutinize the leadership of the Executive Committee, and chart a course for the next five years. Draft documents—including political reports, self-criticism reports, resolutions, and action programs—had been prepared “seriously and scientifically,” according to official sources, reflecting a drive for transparency and rigor.
Preparation was thorough. By August 28, 2025, every party committee and grassroots cell under the Government Party Committee had completed its own congress, ensuring that all voices were heard and every procedural requirement met. The Party Committee also directed exhibitions showcasing achievements in scientific and technological innovation, digital transformation, and socio-economic development during the 2021-2025 term. These displays, as reported by the Government Portal, were intended both to celebrate progress and inspire further effort.
While delegates in Hanoi looked to the future, the mood in Nghe An was one of reflection and pride. The Party Committee and Military Command of Military Region 4 hosted a grand ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the region’s armed forces, a formation whose roots trace back to October 15, 1945. On that date, President Ho Chi Minh signed the decree establishing 12 war zones, including Military Region 4—a strategic area that would become synonymous with resilience and heroism.
The ceremony, as covered by the Communist Party of Vietnam’s online portal, was attended by a veritable who’s who of the nation’s political and military elite. General To Lam, Secretary of the Central Party Committee, presided over the event and awarded the Ho Chi Minh Order—a rare and high honor—to the armed forces of Military Region 4. Other attendees included Politburo members, Central Party secretaries, key military leaders such as General Phan Van Giang (Minister of National Defense), General Luong Tam Quang (Minister of Public Security), and General Trinh Van Quyet (Chief of the General Political Department of the Vietnam People’s Army). Representatives from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic were also present, underscoring the region’s enduring ties with neighboring countries.
In his commemorative speech, Lieutenant General Ha Tho Binh, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Commander of Military Region 4, recounted the region’s journey from its founding to its present stature. “Since that historic date, October 15 has become the traditional day of the Armed Forces of Military Region 4,” he stated, according to the Communist Party’s official report. The region has long been recognized as a strategic stronghold with a rich revolutionary tradition, producing many heroic figures who have shaped Vietnam’s destiny.
Military Region 4 played a pivotal role in Vietnam’s resistance wars against both French colonialists and American forces. During the struggle against the French, the region served as a “solid revolutionary base,” contributing to the legendary victory at Dien Bien Phu—a turning point that “shook the world,” as Vietnamese historians often say. In the fight against American intervention, Military Region 4 became the “frontline of fire and steel” for North Vietnam, simultaneously acting as a rear base for the southern front. The military and people of the region, inspired by President Ho Chi Minh’s exhortations, displayed extraordinary resolve and sacrifice. Their efforts, as highlighted in the commemorative address, were vital to national liberation and the eventual reunification of the country.
The event in Nghe An also celebrated the ongoing modernization and strengthening of the regional armed forces. Lieutenant General Ha Tho Binh emphasized the continued focus on building a “people’s defense posture” and enhancing the quality of the militia and self-defense forces—an effort that remains crucial in a region frequently challenged by natural disasters and strategic threats. The “Bộ đội Cụ Hồ” (Uncle Ho’s soldiers) have become a symbol of steadfastness and compassion, especially in disaster response and community support, earning the trust and admiration of local people.
For its exceptional contributions, Military Region 4 has been repeatedly honored by the Party and State. The region has received two Gold Star Orders, two Ho Chi Minh Orders, and multiple other high distinctions. The latest conferment of the Ho Chi Minh Order, its third, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and ongoing contributions of its armed forces. “This noble reward affirms the stature and great contributions of Military Region 4’s armed forces in the revolutionary cause of the Party and the nation,” read the official citation, as reported by the Communist Party’s news portal.
As Vietnam looks ahead to new challenges and opportunities, the twin events of October 12, 2025, serve as both a call to action and a reminder of the sacrifices that have paved the way. The Congress in Hanoi is shaping the nation’s next chapter, while the commemoration in Nghe An ensures that the lessons and spirit of the past remain alive in the present. The convergence of these milestones, each in its own way, reflects a country intent on honoring its heritage as it forges ahead into an era of innovation, unity, and sustainable progress.
