Rome (VNA) - The Vietnamese Embassy in Italy and the Vietnamese Defence Attaché Office in Spain and Italy have jointly organised a ceremony in Rome to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) and the 35th anniversary of the All-People Defence Festival (December 22).
Speaking at the December 16 event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung said the VPA has continuously built up its strength, clearly showcasing its mettle and position as a revolutionary force deeply rooted in the people and fighting for their interests. The army is a source of pride for the Vietnamese Party, State, and people.
The diplomat also noted significant advancements in defence relations between Vietnam and Italy. Notably, Italy will participate for the first time in the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024, set to open in Hanoi in the next few days.
Colonel Van Viet Cuong, Vietnamese Defence Attaché to Spain and Italy, underscored that defence diplomacy has become a cornerstone of Vietnam's foreign policy, a channel for the country to build and strengthen strategic trust, foster friendships with nations and international organisations, and elevate the position and prestige of Vietnamese people and armed forces.
On this occasion, Cuong announced the plan to establish a new defence attaché office of Vietnam in Rome next year.
During the ceremony, attendees watched a documentary on the formation of the Vietnam Propaganda Unit of Liberation Army, the forerunner of the VPA, on December 22, 1944, following a directive of President Ho Chi Minh. It also showcased the army’s achievements over the past eight decades.
Talking to the Vietnam News Agency on the sidelines, Sandra Scagliotti, Honorary Consul of Vietnam in Turin and Genoa assessed that the VPA is the foundation and core of Vietnam's armed forces, serving the people and fighting for the people.
Mauro Cotogno, a member of the Italy-Vietnam Association in Genoa, expressed admiration for Vietnam's "four no’s" defence policy, which reflects the nation’s enduring respect for the value of peace, independence, and freedom./.
