Lao People’s Army celebrates 70th founding anniversary

Vientiane (VNA) – A meeting was held at the Kommadam Academy in Vientiane province on January 20 to mark the 70th founding anniversary of the Lao People’s Army.

The event drew the participation of General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of Laos Bounnhang Volachith, incumbent and former LPRP and State leaders of Laos, among others.

A number of foreign military delegations, including those from Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Russia, Myanmar and Thailand, along with representatives from diplomatic corps and international organizations in Laos also attended the meeting.

The Vietnamese delegation to the event was led by Politburo member and Minister of National Defence General Ngo Xuan Lich.

In his opening remarks, LPRP General Secretary and President of Laos Bounnhang Volachith reviewed the history of the Lao People’s Army, originated from the Lao Itsala Army, since its formation on January 20, 1949.

With the solidarity and patriotism as well as support from socialist countries, the Lao People’s Army defeated many strong enemies to liberate the nation, the Lao leader noted.

He said that since the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic on December 2, 1975, the Lao People’s Army has continued successfully performing its national defence missions, firmly safeguarding the national independence, sovereignty and national integrity as well as political stability and social order.

The Lao leader stressed that the building of the special fighting alliance with the Vietnam People’s Army is one of the most important factors leading to Laos’ victory against enemies.

He highlighted the sacrifice by Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts as well as international friends, for the revolution of Laos, affirming that their contributions will be always remembered by the Lao people.

He also expressed gratitude towards socialist countries and friends, including Vietnam, China and Russia, for their whole-hearted and effective support.

Amidst the changing regional and international situation, Laos will continue staying persistent to foreign policy of peace, independence, friendship and cooperation, while maintaining and promoting its partnership with countries around the world, especially neighbouring nations based on the principle of respecting each other’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, not interfering into each other’s internal affairs, equality for mutual interest and co-existing in peace.

Following the opening speech of the Lao leader, a parade was held along with aircraft and parachute performances.-VNA