Hanoi, December 20, 2024 – The Europe Today: On Friday, Party General Secretary Tô Lâm attended a grand ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam People’s Army (December 22, 1944 – 2024) and the 35th anniversary of the All People’s Defence Festival.
The event was attended by Party and State leaders, revolutionary veterans, Vietnamese Heroic Mothers, and diplomatic representatives from partner countries and international organisations in Vietnam.
Addressing the gathering, Party General Secretary Lâm lauded the Vietnam People’s Army as a force “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” He highlighted the army’s unwavering commitment to sharing hardships with citizens and its role as a pillar of support during crises and natural disasters.
Building a Modern and Integrated Force
The Party chief noted the army’s remarkable strides in recent years, particularly in modernising its forces and embracing technological advancements. This transformation has fortified the foundation of a revolutionary, elite, and modern people’s army, capable of meeting emerging security challenges.
The Vietnam People’s Army has actively engaged in United Nations peacekeeping missions, joint training exercises, disaster relief, war aftermath recovery, and cooperation with international partners. These efforts, he said, not only safeguard the nation from afar but also enhance Vietnam’s global standing.
In recognition of its outstanding contributions and 80 years of development, the army has been honoured with numerous awards, including five Gold Star Medals, one First-Class Military Exploit Order, and two First-Class Labour Orders. For this milestone anniversary, the army received the prestigious Hồ Chí Minh Order, reflecting its rich history and exceptional service to the nation.
Commitment to Peace and Sovereignty
General Secretary Lâm reaffirmed Vietnam’s steadfast policy of resolving disputes through peaceful means based on international law. He emphasised the country’s respect for the independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of all nations.
“Vietnam does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, nor does it join military alliances, allow foreign military bases on its soil, or use its territory to target other nations,” Lâm stated.
He added that Vietnam remains committed to avoiding the use or threat of force in international relations, upholding its role as a proponent of peace and stability on the global stage.
Future Missions
In the new revolutionary period, the Vietnam People’s Army is tasked with excelling in its mission to defend the socialist homeland, maintaining the Party’s leadership and the State’s unified management over national defence, and fostering the great unity of the people.
The Party leader stressed the importance of building a revolutionary, elite, and modern army loyal to the Party, the State, and the people. He urged the armed forces to remain vigilant, adapt to emerging security challenges, and continue promoting international integration to sustain peace and drive the nation’s development.
The commemorative event underscored the Vietnam People’s Army’s pivotal role in the nation’s history and its enduring dedication to safeguarding peace and prosperity for generations to come.
