"Officials said that nearly 16,000 soldiers joined the parade, which also included honour guards from China, Russia, Laos and Cambodia. In a speech to mark the occasion, To Lam, the general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, paid tribute to those who died fighting for independence, and reiterated the governing party's goal for Vietnam to become a powerful, prosperous and happy nation by 2045."
"University student Vu Thi Trang said she had staked out her position to observe the celebrations two days in advance. Something inside just pushed me to be here, the 19-year-old told the AFP news agency. I am grateful for the sacrifices of the previous generation, so that we have peace and freedom to grow up. As part of anniversary festivities, Vietnam last week announced it would hand out 100,000 dong ($3.80) to each of its 100 million citizens."
Tens of thousands gathered in Hanoi for a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of independence from French colonial rule. Authorities displayed missiles, helicopters and fighter jets at Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh declared independence on September 2, 1945. Nearly 16,000 soldiers participated, joined by honour guards from China, Russia, Laos and Cambodia. To Lam paid tribute to those who died and reiterated a goal for Vietnam to become powerful, prosperous and happy by 2045. Officials announced a one-time cash payment to citizens and a release of nearly 13,920 prisoners, including 66 foreigners.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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