Vietnam’s defence ministry honours Russian veterans

Moscow, November 19 (VNA) – Deputy Minister of National Defence Sen. Lieut. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien recently hosted a meeting in Moscow with Russian veterans who had served in Vietnam, honouring their crucial role in the struggle for Vietnam’s independence and reunification, as part of his working trip to the country.

At the event, Chien underscored the enduring bonds between Vietnam and the former Soviet Union as well as the Russian Federation that have withstood the test of time and historical changes, saying they laid the foundation for their comprehensive strategic partnership nowadays.

The two countries always bear in mind international communist soldiers and outstanding Vietnamese people who laid down their lives defending Moscow from fascist troops during the harsh winter of 1941, he said, adding the Vietnamese side always treasures the Russian people’s great support during its struggle for national independence and reunification.

Chien highlighted the achievements that Vietnam has obtained since its independence in 1945 and reunification in 1975, including better living conditions of local people, stable social and political situation, enhanced defence and security, and increasing prestige in the international arena.

Nikolai Kolesnik, Chairman of the Russian association of military experts who served in Vietnam, recalled the Russian experts' achievements during their time in Vietnam and praised Vietnamese missile operators' determination and skills, which contributed to the victory in the "Dien Bien Phu in the air" campaign in December 1972.

Chien took this occasion to invite the Russian veterans to visit Vietnam to attend the upcoming celebrations of the 80th founding anniversary of the Vietnam People's Army and the 35th anniversary of the All-people national defence day.

Earlier, Chien hosted a similar get-together in St. Petersburg./.