Vietnamese embassies in Venezuela and Mexico commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Việt Nam People’s Army and the 35th anniversary of the All-People Defence Festival with events celebrating defence cooperation and contributions to peacekeeping. The ceremonies emphasized the growth of diplomatic and military ties, culminating in the opening of a new Defence Attaché Office in Mexico.
On December 4, 2024, Vietnamese embassies and Defence Attaché Offices in Venezuela and Mexico celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Việt Nam People’s Army (VPA) along with the 35th anniversary of the All-People Defence Festival. Vietnamese Ambassador to Venezuela, Vũ Trung Mỹ, reflected on the VPA’s historical accomplishments and the festival’s importance, acknowledging the growth of defence cooperation between Việt Nam and Venezuela since 2013, which has included military training exchanges and language programs for Venezuelan military personnel.
Venezuela’s Vice President Jorge Marquez highlighted the value of Việt Nam’s military doctrine in shaping Venezuela’s revolutionary armed forces and expressed a commitment to further strengthen the countries’ traditional friendship. Earlier, various events including talks and exhibitions were held to showcase Việt Nam’s defence policies and the VPA’s development at key Venezuelan institutions.
The following day, on December 5, similar events took place in Mexico, attended by over 200 guests. Ambassador-Designate Nguyễn Hải Vân reiterated Việt Nam’s focus on international integration and defense diplomacy, emphasizing contributions to global peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. Major General Jose Filiberto Nuñez Salina of the Mexican Ministry of Defence remarked on the shared historical struggles for liberation and the similarities between the two nations, noting substantial opportunities for future collaboration in various sectors.
Furthermore, on December 2, the Vietnamese Embassy in Mexico inaugurated the Vietnamese Defence Attaché Office, coinciding with the forthcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Mexico in 2025.
The celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Việt Nam People’s Army highlights the historical significance and achievements of the VPA, which was established in 1944. The event in Venezuela and Mexico underscores the growing military ties and cultural exchange between Việt Nam and Latin American countries. The All-People Defence Festival celebrates national unity and defense preparedness, promoting awareness of the importance of security and independence. These commemorations are indicative of Việt Nam’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and enhancing its defence diplomacy globally, particularly in regions with shared historical contexts.
The ceremonies in Venezuela and Mexico reflect the evolving defence relations between Việt Nam and these nations, celebrating historical ties and future collaboration prospects. With significant participation from diplomatic and military officials, the events reinforced Việt Nam’s strategic interests in international defense diplomacy and highlighted the mutual respect and shared values that bind these countries together. The inauguration of the Defence Attaché Office in Mexico further exemplifies both nations’ commitment to advancing their bilateral relations ahead of their 50th diplomatic anniversary in 2025.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn