The event was chaired by Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien, Deputy Minister of National Defence, and was attended by diplomats from Russia, Cuba, Belarus, Cambodia, China and Laos.

The memorial complex was inaugurated to mark the 79th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Resistance Day, the 81st anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam People’s Army and the 36th anniversary of National Defence Day, and ahead of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

It comprises five sculpture groups symbolising the solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and the former Soviet Union, China, Cuba, Laos and Cambodia, countries that provided critical support to Vietnam during its wars of national liberation and reunification. The project aims to honour that assistance and reaffirm Vietnam’s consistent commitment to international solidarity, friendship and cooperation for peace and sustainable development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sen. Lieut. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien noted Vietnam’s victories in its wars were not only the result of strong patriotism and self-reliance, but also of the sincere and steadfast support from socialist allies and international friends. He stated that such assistance, ranging from equipment and technical expertise to political and diplomatic backing and even the sacrifice of lives, had become a lasting symbol of international solidarity.

The project was completed after more than five months of construction, meeting requirements for quality, aesthetics and artistic value. The memorial complex is expected to serve as an important site for historical education, research and community activities, while conveying a message of peace, friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the international community.

Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Gennady Stepanovich Bezdetko said the Soviet Union was among the first to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam and played an active role in supporting the country during wartime. He expressed appreciation for Vietnam’s efforts to preserve shared historical memories, describing them as evidence of deep political trust between Vietnam and Russia.

Cuban Ambassador Rogelio Polanco Fuentes said relations between Vietnam and Cuba were forged during wartime and strengthened through decades of close cooperation. He maintained that the enduring friendship between the two countries continues to be nurtured for the benefit of both peoples and for peace and progress globally.

The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting and a floral tribute at the sculpture groups dedicated to international experts and soldiers from the former Soviet Union, China, Cuba, Laos and Cambodia.

Vietnamese leaders attend groundbreaking, inauguration ceremonies for key projects

VOV.VN - Many Vietnamese leaders fanned out across the country on December 19 to attend groundbreaking and inauguration ceremonies for major infrastructure and urban development projects, marking national celebrations ahead of the 11th National Patriotic Emulation Congress and the 14th National Party Congress.