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Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Gennady Stepanovich Bezdetko |
On May 9, 2025, the contingent of the Vietnam People’s Army joined Russian servicemen in the military parade on the Red Square, Moscow, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. Four months later, on September 2, a Russian contingent marched alongside Vietnamese troops in Hanoi’s Ba Dinh Square during the parade marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and Vietnam’s National Day.
According to Ambassador Bezdetko, these events carry profound meaning. He described the presence of Vietnamese servicemen in Moscow on May 9 as a vivid symbol of friendship, solidarity, and a shared commitment to preserving historical memory and truth. He noted that the participation of Russian soldiers in Hanoi was equally significant, standing shoulder to shoulder with Vietnamese officers and soldiers in celebration of the nation’s most important holiday.
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The Russian contingent participating in the parade celebrating the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s August Revolution and National Day |
The ambassador remarked on the warm reception given to Russian servicemen during their time in Vietnam. Just as they had been welcomed in Moscow, the Russian troops were enthusiastically greeted in Hanoi, both in person and online. Videos of training sessions and live broadcasts of the parade received widespread attention and praise from the Vietnamese public. Bezdetko considered this response a powerful reflection of traditional friendship and deep mutual understanding between the two peoples, and a clear demonstration of the comprehensive strategic partnership that binds Russia and Vietnam. He extended sincere gratitude to the Vietnamese people for their hospitality and warmth.
Sharing his impressions of the September 2 celebrations, the ambassador emphasized the scale and organization of the nationwide events, particularly in Hanoi. He acknowledged that staging such a large and high-profile celebration was no easy task, noting that Vietnam had also implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure the event’s success. What impressed him most, however, was the enthusiasm and joy of the Vietnamese people, which left a lasting positive impression. On behalf of his country, he extended heartfelt congratulations to Vietnam on this historic occasion.
Bezdetko also underlined the importance of international participation in the celebrations, which he said helped strengthen relations and build “bridges of friendship” among nations. The Russian delegation was led by Vladimir Vladimirovich Yakushev, First Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council of Russia and Secretary of the General Council of the United Russia Party.
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Russian delegation taking photos with Vietnamese people during their visit to the exhibition “80 Year-Journey of Independence – Freedom – Happiness” |
According to the ambassador, the visit fully met the highest expectations, reflecting the continued strength of bilateral ties. He once again expressed deep appreciation for the warm and generous welcome extended by Vietnam.
Translated by Tran Hoai