New Delhi (VNA) – Indian General P.K. Chakravorty has expressed his deep admiration for Vietnam’s remarkable achievements over the past five decades, particularly as the country prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification (April 30, 1975–2025).
Speaking to the Vietnam News Agency ahead of the historic occasion, General Chakravorty described April 30, 1975, as a milestone not only for Vietnam but also for all nations aspiring to freedom and stable unification. He hailed the date as the culmination of the Vietnamese people's struggle for independence.
Reflecting on Vietnam’s journey, Chakravorty, who served as India’s Defence Attaché to Vietnam from 1996 to 1999, emphasised that the economic reforms under the Doi moi (Renewal) policy launched in 1986 transformed Vietnam from a centrally planned economy into a socialist-oriented market economy. These reforms led to a sharp rise in agricultural output, a surge in foreign investment, and consistent economic growth exceeding 7%. Today, Vietnam is home to approximately 100 million people, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 476 billion USD. He attributed these achievements to Vietnam’s commitment to maintaining political stability and fostering warm, friendly relations with major global powers, including Russia, the US, and China.
The Indian General highlighted that national unity was the cornerstone of Vietnam’s victory in 1975 and remains a crucial driver of the country's current development across all sectors.
Although the post-1975 period presented significant challenges, Chakravorty noted that Vietnam, by blending military strategy, diplomacy, and the mobilisation of national and global strength, has steadily achieved its development goals. Vietnam’s rising stature is reflected in its active participation in major regional and international organisations, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the East Asia Summit (EAS), and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Moreover, he praised Vietnam’s steadfast efforts in safeguarding the country's territorial sovereignty in the East Sea.
As Vietnam enters a new era of growth, Chakravorty underlined the importance of maintaining adept diplomacy, fostering national unity, and embracing flexibility and innovation for modernisation. He suggested that Vietnam further advance automation, artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and space development, while expanding technical cooperation with advanced economies to unlock new opportunities, enhance living standards, and lay the groundwork for sustainable development.
Reflecting on the valuable lessons drawn from the historic April 30 victory, Chakravorty stressed the importance of national solidarity, steadfastness of purpose, creative approaches, flexibility, contingency planning, and strengthening both domestic and international cooperation as keys to Vietnam’s continued successful integration into the global economy./.
