President Truong Tan Sang has called upon the people of Vietnam to focus on President Ho Chi Minh’s teachings, in a bid to boost development, national culture, sovereignty and independence.

He made the request during a ceremony held in the northern midland province of Phu Tho on September 19 to mark 60 years since the late leader visited the Hung Kings’ Temple and 45 years of implementing his testament.

President Sang recalled the late leader’s teachings during his visit, quoting his words at the meeting with soldiers that “the Hung Kings had made great efforts to found the nation, you and I have to work hard together to defend the nation.”

After six decades of implementing the late President’s teachings, the people of Vietnam , under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, have achieved a number of successes in nation-building and national defence, he said.

Vietnam has become increasingly integrated into the world since gaining national independence and reunification, he noted.

President Sang also hailed Phu Tho’s efforts in poverty reduction and improving living conditions for local residents, especially ethnic minorities.

Following the ceremony, President Sang and Phu Tho leaders also offered incense to the late leader at the national historical relic site of the Hung Kings Temple .

The temple is located on Nghia Linh Mountain in Phu Tho’s Phong Chau district, approximately 100km northwest of Hanoi . It is a large complex comprising ancient tombs, monuments and temples.

In 2012, UNESCO recognised the worshipping of the Hung Kings as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

That same day, President Sang also visited Hung Vuong University in Viet Tri city.-VNA