General Secretary and President To Lam delivered a speech at the ceremony held in Hanoi on August 28 to mark the 81st anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (September 2, 1945–2026).
Following is a translation of the full speech, as delivered by the Government News:
Distinguished guests,
Dear comrades, compatriots, and international friends,
Today, amid the solemn and triumphant atmosphere of these historic autumn days, in our thousand-year-old capital of Hanoi, we gather in great solemnity to celebrate the 81st National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam—a glorious milestone in our nation's history of national construction, defense, and development.
On behalf of the Party, State, and People of Vietnam, I extend my warmest greetings, most heartfelt greetings, and best wishes to the leaders and former leaders of the Party, State, National Assembly, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front; to our revolutionary veterans, Heroes of the Armed Forces, Heroes of Labor, intellectuals, religious leaders, representatives of all strata of working people; to Ambassadors, heads of international organizations in Vietnam, distinguished guests, our compatriots across the nation, and our overseas Vietnamese community.
Dear comrades, compatriots, and international friends!
With the return of every autumn, tens of millions of Vietnamese hearts beat as one, turning toward historic Ba Dinh Square. It was here, 81 years ago, that our beloved President Ho Chi Minh solemnly proclaimed the Declaration of Independence, announcing to the world the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
Every word and phrase of that sacred call to the nation—enduring through all historical vicissitudes—retains its timeless value. It resounds in the conscience of every Vietnamese people and serves as the ultimate wellspring of our great national unity: "Vietnam has the right to enjoy freedom and independence, and in fact has become a free and independent country. The entire Vietnamese nation is determined to mobilize all its physical and mental strength, to sacrifice life and property, in order to safeguard its freedom and independence."
In the sacred atmosphere of "Independence Day," every Vietnamese gains a deeper appreciation for the profound value of "independence" and "freedom." This is a moment for us to express our boundless gratitude for the monumental legacy of President Ho Chi Minh; to pay deep tribute to our revolutionary predecessors, heroes, and martyrs who fought valiantly and sacrificed their lives for the independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Fatherland; and to honor the immense contributions of our people, who have worked tirelessly to build a peaceful, independent, democratic, prosperous, civilized, and happy Vietnam, advancing steadfastly toward socialism.
Dear comrades, compatriots, and international friends!
President Ho Chi Minh once observed that "unity is an invincible force." Over the past 81 years, that "invincible force" has not only guided the Vietnamese revolution from victory to victory, but has also empowered the Vietnamese people to achieve historic, monumental feats in the cause of national construction and defense.
From a nation devoid of international recognition, Vietnam today maintains diplomatic relations with 194 countries, including all member states of the United Nations. It has established Strategic Partnerships and Comprehensive Partnerships with 45 nations, holds membership in 70 key international organizations, and is party to 17 free trade agreements.
From a land severely ravaged by war, Vietnam has transformed into a dynamic economy deeply integrated into the global market, playing a significant role in international trade and serving as a vital link in global production chains. Rising from an underdeveloped economy, Vietnam has made rapid strides, attaining upper-middle-income status after 40 years of Doi Moi (Renovation).
From a country that endured immense loss and sacrifice, the Vietnamese people have courageously won and safeguarded national independence and unity through all historical trials. Step by step, we have built a nation of peace, stability, and progress—where citizens enjoy freedom, prosperity, and happiness while exercising their democratic mastery—and a safe, friendly, and welcoming destination for international investors and friends worldwide.
This journey was forged through the unyielding will, solidarity, and relentless aspirations of the entire nation. It reflects a revolutionary path under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, whose sole purpose is to serve the people. Crucially, it stands as a testament to the invaluable support and assistance rendered to Vietnam by international friends and people across the globe.
Dear comrades, compatriots, and international friends!
This year's National Day takes place amidst a renewed sense of momentum, marking a historic turning point for Vietnam: Following the eras of independence, national unification, and renovation, the 14th National Congress of the Party officially heralds our entry into a new era of development—one aimed at building a strong, prosperous, and thriving Vietnam.
Looking back at the glorious journey since 1945, every Vietnamese citizen feels immense pride and national self-esteem, reinforcing our resolve to realize our strategic objectives toward two historical centennial milestones: By 2030, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the glorious Communist Party of Vietnam, Vietnam aims to become a developing country with modern industry and upper-middle income; by 2045, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, Vietnam strives to become a developed, high-income, prosperous, and happy nation.
On this path toward a new era, the Communist Party of Vietnam consistently places "the people at the center and as the primary subject." All guidelines and policies originate from the practical realities, aspirations, and legitimate rights and interests of the people, aiming ultimately at their well-being and happiness.
Dear comrades, compatriots, and international friends!
Throughout our historical journey, Vietnam has benefited from the cherished support and assistance of the international community. On this occasion, the Party, State, and People of Vietnam express our sincere gratitude and express our desire to continue receiving the close partnership, support, and cooperation of our friends, partners, business communities, and foreign investors as we integrate internationally in this new era of development.
In today's deeply interconnected and interdependent world, instability in any country or region inevitably impacts global security and development. No nation, regardless of its power, can address global challenges in isolation. We must maintain strategic autonomy, embrace integration, and foster stability for peace and development in an uncertain world.
Together, let us enhance dialogue and cooperation, resolving disputes and conflicts on the basis of fundamental principles of international law and the UN Charter to deliver lasting peace as well as sustainable, inclusive development worldwide. We must jointly address global challenges and harness the scientific and technological revolution as a positive driver for human progress. "Together," we will overcome every challenge; "Together," we can build a world of peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Vietnam stands ready to act as a bridge for cooperation and dialogue, and to contribute ever more practically to addressing global affairs. We steadfastly support an equitable and fair multilateral system centered on the United Nations. For us, this is not only an affirmation of Vietnam's responsibility, but also a reflection of our deep gratitude for the heartfelt support and assistance that international friends and people worldwide have extended to Vietnam over the past more than 80 years of national construction and defense.
On the occasion of the 81st National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, I wish all distinguished guests, compatriots, comrades, and international friends good health, happiness, and continued partnership on our journey to build a prosperous, democratic, equitable, and civilized Vietnam. May peace, cooperation, and development remain the mainstream in international relations for a brighter world for generations to come.
Thank you very much!
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