The victory of a heroic nation

In the article, To Lam says, on April 30, 1975, the flag of liberation flew atop the Independence Palace in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City), marking a significant event in the history of the nation - the day the South was fully liberated and the country reunified. This was a great victory of the Vietnamese people in the resistance war against American imperialism, embodying revolutionary heroism, the spirit of independence, self-reliance, and the strength of national unity.

The aspiration for a peaceful, united, independent, and free Vietnam has been a sacred flame throughout thousands of years of history, from the time of the Hung Kings founding the nation to the wars defending the country’s territory. Patriotism and the national spirit have always been the continuous driving forces in Vietnam’s historical journey.

Under the leadership of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh, the Party leader emphasises, that aspiration has always been an unparalleled spiritual strength, motivating all classes of people, united as one, to work together, overcome all difficulties and challenges, and wrestle back independence in 1945, expel colonialists in 1954, and reunify the country in 1975.

He affirms, the April 30, 1975 victory was a monumental milestone in Vietnam’s history, marking the end of the brutal war and the reunification of the country. It was the triumph of faith in independence, freedom, and unity, and the strength of national solidarity under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam. This victory embodied the patriotic spirit, unwavering fighting will, and determination to reunify the country, which could not be divided. President Ho Chi Minh’s teachings about the inviolability of sovereignty and territorial integrity became the guiding light, inspiring generations throughout the years of war.

The April 30, 1975 victory was not only a military triumph but also the crystallisation of the intelligence, courage, and aspiration for peace and self-determination of the Vietnamese nation. It was a collective victory of the entire people, as affirmed by General Secretary Le Duan and poet To Huu that victory did not belong to any individual, but to the entire Vietnamese nation, and that triumph was a shared glory of all humankind.

The great Spring Victory of 1975 also left a profound mark on the international stage, inspiring national liberation movements across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and affirming that a small nation, if united and righteous, can overcome even the mightiest forces.

The will and aspiration for national reunification

Throughout the 30 years of resistance (1945–1975), despite enduring countless hardships and losses, the Vietnamese nation’s will for independence and unity never wavered. President Ho Chi Minh repeatedly affirmed this determination in his speeches and letters to the people, emphasising that national reunification was the lifeline of the nation. Even as the war dragged on, he asserted that Nothing Is More Precious Than Independence And Freedom, expressing his steadfast belief that the Vietnamese people would achieve victory and build a stronger, more prosperous country.

Under the leadership of President Ho and the Party, the Vietnamese army and people overcame countless challenges, gradually defeating modern war strategies with unshakable faith in their just cause and the spirit of national independence. President Ho’s declaration that Vietnam Is One Nation, And The Vietnamese People Are One People became a fighting truth and a tremendous source of spiritual strength, rallying the entire nation in the determined struggle for independence, freedom, and national reunification.

Recalling the difficult and arduous moments of the resistance war against American imperialism, General Secretary To Lam says, throughout more than 30 years of resistance and national construction, millions of young Vietnamese sacrificed their lives for independence and freedom. Countless families were separated, villages devastated, and generations of young people set aside their dreams to head to the battlefield with the vow, We Will Not Return Until The Enemy Is Defeated. Mothers and wives bid farewell to their loved ones, children grew up amidst the roar of bombs, and soldiers, frontline workers, urban commandos, guerrillas, and liberation forces, all shared a steadfast belief in the day when North and South would reunite and the country would be whole again.

He affirms, the April 30, 1975 victory is the result of the ideals, unyielding will, and immense sacrifices of the entire Vietnamese nation. Even though half a century has passed, the echoes of the triumphant song still resonate deeply within the hearts of the Vietnamese people.

The Party leader emphasises the deep gratitude and recognition the Vietnamese people have for both the sacrifices made by President Ho Chi Minh and other leaders, heroes, martyrs, soldiers, and citizens in the struggle for independence and reunification, as well as for the unwavering support and solidarity provided by international friends and organisations during Vietnam’s fight for liberation and its post-war recovery. It reinforces the idea that Vietnam’s journey towards independence and prosperity is not only a domestic effort but also a collective international struggle, and that the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity will be remembered and cherished by future generations.

Half a century of restoration, healing, and development

Over the past century, he says, the Vietnamese people have faced immense challenges, from the colonial oppression of foreign powers, feudalism, to two brutal wars that spanned more than three decades. The wars not only claimed the lives of millions but also left deep physical and psychological scars, with long-lasting effects on society, the economy, and the environment. From unexploded bombs, Agent Orange, to invisible wounds, the consequences of war continue to haunt, affecting every corner of the country.

However, with compassion and forgiveness, the Vietnamese people have overcome pain, surmounted difficulties, and gradually healed the wounds of war. After 50 years of national reunification, Vietnam now possesses the strength, confidence, pride, and generosity to look forward together. The policy of national reconciliation, as identified by the Party and the State, is a long-term strategic choice and the foundation for the unity of the entire nation.

He reminds that, despite past differences, all Vietnamese people, whether in the country or abroad, share the same roots, the same language, and a deep love for the homeland.

The Party leader recalls his visits overseas, reflecting on his encounters with the Vietnamese diaspora across the world. He highlights the diverse experiences of overseas Vietnamese, from young professionals to successful entrepreneurs, artists, and ordinary workers. Despite their different paths and circumstances, he says, they all share a deep connection to their homeland, Vietnam.

He underscores the power of reconciliation and unity, even after periods of intense conflict. He uses the example of Vietnamese veterans and US veterans - once enemies - who are now able to meet, converse, and share experiences without any animosity. This, he says, symbolises the possibility of overcoming past divisions and building mutual understanding, which can help heal historical wounds.

The leader also points out the evolution of the relationship between Vietnam and the United States, from being adversaries during the war to becoming comprehensive strategic partners focused on peace, stability, and cooperation. This transformation serves as a proof of the healing power of reconciliation.

By drawing this parallel, the leader suggests that if former foes can reconcile and work together for mutual benefit, then there is no reason why the people of Vietnam whether they live in the country or abroad, and regardless of past disagreements, cannot come together for the common good. He stresses that the shared heritage and identity of the Vietnamese people should foster unity, rather than division, and that all should work towards a brighter, more prosperous future for the nation.

According to the Party chief, national reconciliation does not mean forgetting history or blurring differences; rather, it is about embracing diversity in viewpoints, recognising the lessons of the past with tolerance and respect. The ultimate goal is to build a peaceful, unified, strong, and prosperous Vietnam, so that future generations will never have to experience war, separation, hatred, or loss, as previous generations have had to endure.

Fifty years ago, the Vietnamese nation wrote a heroic epic, glowing with determination and the will to unify the country. And half a century later, it continues to write a new epic - a harmonious song of renewal, integration, development, and rising strength in the 21st century. Every Vietnamese, whether at home or abroad, is looking towards a powerful and prosperous Vietnam, standing shoulder to shoulder with the great nations of the world, not only to be proud of the past but to be proud of a promising future.

Forward-looking vision for Vietnam’s future

The Party leader conveys a powerful vision for the future of Vietnam, by underscoring that independence and reunification are important milestones, but they are not the end goal. Instead, they serve as the foundation for a much longer journey filled with challenges and opportunities. The leader then calls for the current generation to honour the sacrifices made by previous generations and use those ideals to drive the country’s development in the modern era.

He stresses that the spirit of national unity, which helped Vietnam overcome historical hardships, should now be channeled into a strong political will to not only protect the country’s sovereignty but also centre on sustainable development. This includes improving the material and spiritual well-being of all citizens and creating a stable environment for future generations.

In the context of global changes and uncertainties, the leader highlights the need for Vietnam to be strong, proactive, and adaptable, to safeguard its national identity and interests. The message is clear: while opportunities and challenges are intertwined, only by building internal strength and unity can Vietnam face these challenges and progress on the path of national development. So he calls on every Vietnamese citizen, whether inside or outside the country, to contribute to the nation’s future, by playing a part in the collective effort to create a prosperous and peaceful Vietnam.

The Party leader also stresses the importance of Vietnam’s future development, pointing out that the country must build an independent and self-reliant economy while strengthening national defence and security in a comprehensive and modern way. He stresses the need for political reforms that make the system more streamlined, effective, and efficient, in order to foster a society that is developed, united, cultural, and humane.

He calls for the participation of the entire nation in this process, including the Vietnamese diaspora. In the digital age and in a world increasingly connected globally, every Vietnamese person, regardless of their location, can contribute to the country's growth and development with their skills, creativity, patriotism, and civic responsibility. The leader affirms that the Vietnamese community abroad represents a valuable resource that can help Vietnam seize new opportunities and overcome challenges in the rapidly changing world.

Unity and resilience are the strengths that will help Vietnam overcome all difficulties, not just in war but also in building a prosperous, sustainable, and hopeful future for the next generations, he affirms.

The Party General Secretary acknowledges the importance of not allowing Vietnam to fall behind, missing opportunities, or repeating historical mistakes. The focus must be on long-term, sustainable growth rather than short-term achievements. This involves prioritising national and people’s interests, safeguarding the country’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and ensuring a peaceful and stable environment for development.

He calls for a shift in thinking toward stronger innovation in development, not only in the economy but also in politics and administration. The importance of administrative reform and building a socialist rule-of-law state is emphasised, with a market economy that is effectively managed by the state under the leadership of the Party. This approach will not only help the country grow materially but will also enhance spiritual life, cultural values, and national unity.

The future of Vietnam depends on the collective effort of all people working toward a brighter future for the nation, he again reiterates.

Looking to the future, the Party General Secretary expresses confidence in Vietnam’s strength and resilience. He highlights the country’s historical victories and progress, and with the current generation’s ambition and talent, Vietnam is poised to continue advancing. The 21st century, he notes, will be the century of nations that control their own destiny, and Vietnam, with its unity and lessons from the past, will continue to write a success history.

National workshop sheds light on Vietnam’s 50-year socio-economic development

VOV.VN - Experts comprehensively analysed Vietnam’s development achievements over the past five decades, addressed current challenges, and proposed strategies to ensure future sustainable development at a national workshop in Ho Chi Minh City on April 26.