The US government will not attend Vietnam’s War Anniversary Parade in Ho Chi Minh City, marking a stark contrast to improved relations between the two countries.
U.S. Absent from Vietnam’s War Anniversary Parade Despite Improved Relations
April 30, 1975, marked the end of the almost 20-year war that ravaged Vietnam, as well as its ally the ‘United States.’ The day is now celebrated in Vietnam as Reunification Day.
The U.S. government will not be attending the main public event commemorating the end of the Vietnam War in Ho Chi Minh City this week. According to a guest list released by the organizers and seen by NPR, top of the list are Vietnam’s biggest friends — ‘Laos,’ ‘Cambodia,’ ‘Cuba,’ and ‘China.’
The United States' withdrawal from the Vietnam War in 1973 marked a significant turning point in American history.
The conflict lasted for nearly two decades, resulting in over 58,000 U.S. military fatalities and more than 300,000 Vietnamese deaths.
As the anniversary of the war's end approaches, many reflect on the devastating consequences of U.S. involvement.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards reconciliation between the U.S. and Vietnam, with increased diplomatic efforts and cultural exchanges.
However, the legacy of the war remains complex and contentious.
On April 30, 1975, North Vietnamese troops stormed the Independence Palace in central Saigon — now known as Ho Chi Minh City — ending the almost 20-year war that caused great losses to both North and South Vietnam, as well as the South’s ally the ‘United States.’
Despite improved relations between the U.S. and Vietnam, with a comprehensive strategic partnership for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development, several high-profile individuals have arrived in Ho Chi Minh City ahead of the anniversary, including U.S. veterans and former war correspondents.
However, the absence of U.S. government officials has led to some disappointment among the Vietnamese, with 74-year-old war veteran Phung Xuan Hai stating that each country ‘has its own thinking.’ He added: ‘Even if they’re our comprehensive strategic partners, they have a different nature.’
The United States and Vietnam established diplomatic relations in 1995, following the normalization of ties between the two countries.
The relationship was strained during the 'Vietnam War' (1959-1975), with the U.S. providing military aid to South Vietnam against the communist North.
After the war, economic sanctions were imposed on Vietnam until 1994.
Since then, trade and investment have increased significantly, with the U.S. being one of Vietnam's largest trading partners.
The event organizers have confirmed that more than 13,000 people, including the army, the police and civilians, are taking part in the main parade. The parade will feature a fly-over by the Vietnamese air force, fireworks, and a drone show.
