As Vietnam gears up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Reunification Day on April 30, a series of events and responses have unfolded, showcasing the complex relationship between Vietnam and the United States, as well as the nation's focus on security and domestic development.
On April 24, 2025, during a regular press conference, the spokesperson for the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pham Thu Hang, addressed a sensitive issue concerning the U.S. government's reported request for its officials to refrain from attending the upcoming commemorative events. This request was highlighted in a New York Times article, which stated that the Trump administration had advised American diplomats, including Ambassador Marc Knapper, to avoid participation in the celebrations marking the end of the Vietnam War.
Responding to the media's inquiries, Hang emphasized the significance of the April 30 victory, describing it as a "victory of conscience and justice, ending loss and pain not only for the Vietnamese people but also for many American families." She reiterated that the commemoration serves as a moment to honor enduring values such as forgiveness, peace, reconciliation, and the spirit of looking towards the future, saying, "We have witnessed the tremendous efforts of generations of Vietnamese and Americans to develop our bilateral relations as they are today."
The spokesperson's remarks came amidst a backdrop of preparations for the anniversary, which include a series of events across the country. In Ho Chi Minh City, Secretary Nguyen Van Nen chaired a meeting to review the final arrangements for the celebrations, including a military parade, while in Ben Tre province, a solemn ceremony was held to honor the 50th anniversary of the Reunification Day and other significant dates.
Meanwhile, on the same day, the Vietnamese government took proactive steps to ensure security and order during the anniversary celebrations. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued a directive urging ministries and localities to implement measures that would maintain social safety and prevent any potential disruptions during this significant event.
As part of the commemorative activities, Vietnam also organized an international conference on April 23, focusing on the role of diplomacy in national unification. This event was attended by high-level officials, including President Luong Cuong, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic efforts in fostering peace and cooperation.
In a related matter, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs addressed new tariffs imposed by the U.S. on solar energy products from Vietnam and three other Southeast Asian nations. Pham Thu Hang stated that Vietnam is prepared to engage with U.S. authorities to resolve any trade issues, ensuring that relevant information is considered objectively and fairly, in line with international practices. She expressed Vietnam's commitment to promoting fair and transparent trade practices while safeguarding the interests of local businesses.
On April 21, 2025, Reuters reported that the U.S. Department of Commerce announced new tariffs on solar panel products from Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand. The tariffs varied significantly, with some products facing anti-dumping duties as high as 3,500% for those manufacturers that did not cooperate with the U.S. investigation. In contrast, products from Malaysia faced comparatively lower tariffs.
In Hanoi, a recent incident involving a controversial poster further highlighted the sensitivities surrounding Vietnam's historical narrative and its relationship with the U.S. The poster, which depicted a dove standing on a U.S. military helmet, was removed by local authorities after it garnered criticism on social media. The top of the poster welcomed the "50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, national reunification," while the bottom featured imagery that some deemed provocative.
This incident occurred shortly after the reports of the U.S. government's request for its officials to abstain from the commemorative events. The poster's removal reflects the delicate balance Vietnam seeks to maintain in honoring its past while fostering a positive relationship with the U.S. and other international partners.
General Secretary To Lam noted during a recent meeting with veterans and families of martyrs that Ho Chi Minh City should continue to uphold its role as a leading development engine and innovation center for the nation. This sentiment resonates with the government's broader goals of economic growth and modernization, as outlined in its national strategy for waste prevention and resource management.
As Vietnam approaches this significant anniversary, the government is also focused on domestic economic measures. The Prime Minister recently proposed reducing the value-added tax (VAT) by 2% on certain goods and services, anticipating a reduction in state budget revenue but aiming to stimulate economic activity.
With over 12,000 spectators expected to attend the celebratory events, including a political art program featuring fireworks and military displays, Vietnam is poised to showcase its national pride and resilience. The juxtaposition of honoring its historical struggles while looking forward to future partnerships, particularly with the U.S., encapsulates the complexities of Vietnam's contemporary identity.
In conclusion, as Vietnam commemorates the 50th anniversary of its reunification, the nation stands at a crossroads, navigating its historical legacy while striving for a future characterized by peace, cooperation, and development with its international partners.
