Japanese media spotlight Vietnam’s unity message at April 30 victory celebration
Numerous Japanese news outlets have highlighted Vietnam’s message of solidarity at the grand ceremony to mark the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification held in Ho Chi Minh City on April 30.

NHK reported that the ceremony not only commemorated the historic victory that force the US’s withdrawal and led to the national reunification but also spotlighted the impressive economic growth achievements that Vietnam has carved out under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
The broadcaster noted that Party General Secretary To Lam attended the event alongside other key Party and Government officials and international representatives. In his address, the Party chief highlighted the country’s significant accomplishments since the war ended.
Meanwhile the Asahi Shimbun observed that the war divided Vietnam into North and South, leaving scars. The newspaper specifically quoted Party chief To Lam’s message emphasising the need to “close the past, respect differences, look towards the future,” while calling for unity beyond war memories.
Describing the atmosphere in Ho Chi Minh City on this momentous occasion, Asahi wrote that across the downtown city, banners and posters commemorating 50 years of national reunification were on display. Crowds filled the streets, and it's easy to spot people joyfully posing for photos with the national flag proudly in hand.
According to Asahi, the ceremony was held in front of the Independence Palace with the participation of high-ranking officials from traditional friendly countries, aiming to commemorate the losses of the past and demonstrate the development and reconciliation that has followed the war.
Many city residents wore shirts printed with the national flag, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and national pride, it highlighted.
The Yomiuri Shimbun, citing Vietnamese state media, reported that the military parade included 13,000 participants, with military forces from China, Laos, and Cambodia.
Commenting on Vietnam's resistance against the US, Yomiuri wrote that in 1965, the US military conducted a large-scale bombing campaign called 'Rolling Thunder' targeting North Vietnam, plunging the country into full-scale war. However, US forces encountered fierce resistance and eventually had to withdraw in 1973.