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Russian officers and soldiers at the National Exposition Center |
The three foreign delegations to participate in the parade in celebration of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day at Ba Dinh Square, toured the outdoor space of the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense (MND), a special highlight of the exhibition.
The delegations were warmly welcomed by large crowds of visitors. Many servicemen from the Russian delegation, which includes 33 members, expressed joy at the friendly reception given by the Vietnamese people. Greetings in Russian and cheers of “ura!” rang out from the crowd as a sign of affection and admiration for the neatly organized Russian troops. Onlookers waved enthusiastically and seized the opportunity to take photos with the Russian soldiers as they toured the outdoor display of the Vietnam People’s Army.
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Russian servicemen tour the outdoor space of the Ministry of National Defense. |
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The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation delegation posing with Vietnamese people |
Many Vietnamese visitors shared their excitement at meeting the Russian servicemen in person. Previously, they had only seen them on television and in newspapers during rehearsals for the parade. Now, having the chance to see them up close, everyone wanted a keepsake photo. In response, the entire Russian delegation posed for group photos with the public. However, as the number of people wishing to take pictures was overwhelming and time was limited, many visitors were left regretful for not having the chance.
The presence of the Russian delegation created a lively atmosphere of friendship within the exhibition, which showcased many modern weapons of the Vietnam People’s Army.
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The Russian delegation draws great public attention at the exhibition. |
Nguyen Thi Huong, a Hanoi resident, said, “Vietnamese people always have a special affection for the land and people of Russia.” From children to the elderly, everyone greeted the soldiers with warm smiles and waves. Some young people even followed the delegation step by step until they left the display area. Le Tuan Anh from Hung Yen proudly showed off the photo he managed to take with the Russian servicemen, while eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Lao and Cambodian delegations.
Following the Russian contingent, delegations from Laos and Cambodia visited the 23,569-square-meter outdoor space of the Ministry of National Defense. Their arrival attracted great attention from the public. Many people quickly recognized the Lao and Cambodian troops by their field uniforms. In recent weeks, images of international delegations diligently rehearsing for the National Day parade in Vietnam have drawn significant public interest nationwide.
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Lao People’s Army delegation visiting the exhibition |
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Lao People’s Army delegation taking photos |
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Crowds greeting the Lao People’s Army delegation |
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Captain Soutthanone of the Lao People’s Army posing with Vietnamese visitors |
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Lao servicemen with Vietnamese children at the exhibition |
The Lao and Cambodian servicemen continuously waved to return the warm greetings of the crowd. Whenever possible, they gladly posed for photos with enthusiastic Vietnamese visitors. Captain Soutthanone of the Lao People’s Army said he and his comrades were delighted to attend the exhibition and were deeply touched by the overwhelming welcome. He also expressed admiration for the modern weapons and equipment of the Vietnam People’s Army displayed in an impressive setting, showcasing its combat strength and modernization.
The Lao delegation consists of 120 servicemen, including 20 who took part in Vietnam’s 50th Anniversary of the National Reunification Day (April 30, 1975 – 2025) and 49 who joined the Victory Day parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Great Patriotic War (May 9, 1945 – 2025) in Russia. The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces delegation also includes 120 members.
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Cambodian delegation warmly welcomed by the public |
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Royal Cambodian Armed Forces delegation at the exhibition |
The participation of the Lao People’s Army and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces in this year’s National Day celebrations once again affirms Vietnam’s appreciation of the special solidarity forged in combat, the enduring alliance of Vietnam–Laos–Cambodia in the struggle for national liberation and defense. It stands as a noble symbol of international solidarity for peace, cooperation, friendship, and development.
Translated by Tran Hoai