Vietnam marks 80th Independence Day with grand parade and large-scale amnesty

HANOI, Sept 2 — Vietnam marked the 80th anniversary of its independence on Tuesday with its largest military parade in decades, nationwide cash handouts, and the release of nearly 14,000 prisoners.

Tens of thousands filled the streets of Hanoi, many dressed in red and waving Vietnamese flags, in a powerful display of patriotism. The parade featured the country’s most advanced military hardware, including tanks, missiles, helicopters, and fighter jets, with thousands of Vietnamese troops joined by military contingents from China, Russia, and other nations.

“We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguard the independence, freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of our Fatherland — down to every sacred inch of land,” Communist Party chief To Lam declared in his opening address. “This determination stems from the collective strength of our nation — political, economic, cultural, scientific, technological, military, diplomatic, and above all, the will of our people.”

The ceremony took place at Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnam’s independence on Sept 2, 1945, after nearly a century of French colonial rule and a brief Japanese occupation during World War II. The declaration sparked a decade-long conflict with France, which ended in their defeat in 1954.

For many, the celebrations were deeply emotional. “I’m so glad and moved to finally see the troops march past,” said 42-year-old Hanoi resident Hoang Thi Huyen, who camped on the pavement with her family for nearly two days to secure a viewing spot. “It was worth it — the soldiers and fighter jets were spectacular.”

Central Hanoi roads were closed for three days to accommodate rehearsals and the main parade. As part of the anniversary celebrations, the government last week pledged to distribute 100,000 dong (RM16) to each of Vietnam’s 100 million citizens — an unprecedented package estimated to cost about US$380 million.

President Luong Cuong also announced a sweeping amnesty for 13,920 prisoners, including 66 foreign nationals, who will be released early.

At sea, celebrations extended to Cam Ranh Bay, where Vietnam showcased its fleet of submarines and frigates, many of them Russian-built. — Reuters