Vietnam marks 50 years since war's end with the US

Vietnam celebrated the 50th anniversary of the end of the war with the United States in a grand military parade in Ho Chi Minh City. Thousands of Vietnamese citizens waved red flags and sang patriotic songs, marking the historic occasion. The parade commemorated the reunification of the country, which took place on April 30, 1975, when communist North Vietnam took control of Saigon, the capital of the US-backed South. The city was later renamed Ho Chi Minh City in honor of the North’s founding leader.

The event featured a lotus-shaped float with a portrait of Ho Chi Minh at the front, while fighter jets and helicopters carrying red flags flew overhead. Al Jazeera’s Tony Cheng reported that many people camped out on the streets overnight to get a prime spot for the parade. The day was a mix of solemn reflection and celebration.

Tran Van Truong, a 75-year-old veteran, shared his pride in contributing to the liberation of the south, though he expressed no bitterness toward those who fought on the opposing side. “We should unite to celebrate the war's end,” he said.

For the first time, soldiers from China, Laos, and Cambodia participated in the parade. Chinese soldiers played a crucial role in the conflict, offering anti-aircraft support and aiding with logistics.

Zach Abuza, a professor specializing in Southeast Asian politics, suggested that Hanoi’s inclusion of China in the event was a message recognizing the country's historical contributions. It also served as a signal that Vietnam’s foreign policy remains balanced, not swaying entirely toward the United States.

This year also marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the US. In 2023, Vietnam elevated its ties with the US to a comprehensive strategic partnership, the highest level of diplomatic status it accords. However, the relationship is showing signs of strain, especially after the US imposed heavy tariffs and cut foreign aid, which has impacted ongoing war remediation projects, such as those addressing Agent Orange contamination and unexploded ordnance that still pose risks to the population.