Hanoi: Sen. Lieut. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien, Deputy Minister of National Defence, on August 27 hosted Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh, who visited the ministry's headquarters to extend greetings on the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day of Vietnam (September 2). Congratulating officers and soldiers of the Vietnam People's Army on this occasion, Khamphao noted that the success of the August Revolution and the National Day on September 2, 1945 marked the beginning of an era of independence and freedom for Vietnam and served as a source of strong inspiration for liberation movements around the world.

According to Lao News Agency, Khamphao commended Vietnam's progress in economic, cultural, and social development over the past 80 years, while highlighting the effective and practical defence cooperation between Laos and Vietnam. Endorsed by both countries' top leaders, this relationship remains a key pillar of bilateral ties and plays a crucial role in the countries' national construction and defence.

The ambassador reaffirmed the gratitude of the Lao Party, State, Government, armed forces, and people to Vietnam for its support during the past struggle for independence and in current national development. She pledged to continue promoting Laos - Vietnam cooperation in various fields, including defence.

Chien thanked the Lao ambassador and affirmed the long-standing bond between the two nations, forged through the shared struggles against colonial and imperial forces for national liberation. The Party, State, people, and armed forces of Vietnam always remember the assistance provided by their Lao counterparts during the wars of resistance and the cause of national construction and safeguarding. Vietnam remains committed to preserving and further strengthening the relationship between Vietnam and Laos.

The Deputy Minister thanked the Lao Party, State, and Ministry of National Defence for confirming to attend the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day. He also appreciated their support for the building of a monument to Lao soldiers at the Vietnam Military History Museum and their deployment of a military contingent to participate in the upcoming parade.

He emphasised that the National Day celebration is an important political event that honours President Ho Chi Minh, revolutionary forerunners, heroes, martyrs, and all those who sacrificed for national independence and freedom. It reflects Vietnam's gratitude for the support of international friends and progressive peoples, including the Lao people, throughout its revolutionary journey.