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The delegation briefed on the birth of the Communist Party of Vietnam |
During the visit, the Lao officers learned about the history and development of the Vietnam Military History Museum; the 45-meter-high Victory Tower; the weapons and equipment used by the Vietnamese military and people during the resistance wars against the French colonialists and U.S. imperialists; exhibits on the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam; and the Upper Laos Campaign, among others.
They also explored valuable historical documents and artifacts that reflect the building, fighting, and growth of the Vietnam People’s Army throughout the national liberation cause as well as in the current period of national construction and defense.
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Lt. Col. Aphai Aphaiyavong presents a souvenir to the museum. |
On behalf of the Lao delegation, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the People’s Army Newspaper of Laos and head of the delegation Lieutenant Colonel Aphai Aphaiyavong thanked the museum for creating favorable condition for the delegation to experience and learn about the proud history and traditions of the Vietnamese military and people throughout their struggles, nation-building, and growth, along with their significant contributions to the Fatherland construction and defense cause of Vietnam.
The head of the Lao delegation shared his deep emotions after hearing the heroic historical stories told through images, artifacts, and valuable documentary, particularly the preserved remnants of the Dien Bien Phu Campaign. Col. Aphai affirmed that these are invaluable resources, contributing to the research and learning of delegation during their training in Vietnam.
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The Lao officers learn about a legendary tank T-54B, which was recognized as national treasure in 2012. |
Expressing the honor to visit the museum, Head of the Economics–Culture and Society Division of the People’s Army Newspaper of Laos Lieutenant Colonel Sitthiphone Labounmy said, “This is not only a place that preserves history, but also a living symbol of patriotism and unyielding will. The glorious victories of the Vietnam People’s Army are a tremendous source of inspiration for us in our work of promoting and educating patriotic traditions among younger generations.”
The Vietnam Military History Museum currently houses more than 150,000 artifacts, including four national treasures and many rare items. Recently built with a modern design and multiple functions, the museum is not merely a venue for displaying the history of warfare; it also offers an interactive space for visitors to engage with and experience the heroic struggle of the Vietnam People’s Army for national independence.
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Viewing the display area of artifacts and documents on the Upper Laos Campaign (1953) |
The visit of the Lao officers to the museum not only gave them a deeper insight into Vietnam’s military history, but also served as an opportunity to further strengthen the special friendship and solidarity between Vietnam and Laos.
Translated by Tran Hoai