State President Nguyen Minh Triet has urged the army to quickly develop the defence industry modernise its weaponry and military technologies and increase its tactical skills.

“Those moves will help the army to strengthen and enhance its operational abilities and combat efficiency to enable it to deal with hi-tech armaments currently used by its enemies,” said the head of state while addressing a meeting to mark the 65 th anniversary of the Vietnam People Army in Hanoi on Dec. 21.

He said that in the new circumstances, when different opportunities and challenges have emerged, the army needs to turn itself into a modern, professional army, uphold its revolutionary nature and remain loyal to the Party, the Motherland and the people.

In particular, the army should always be vigilant and ready to fight and respond promptly to any potential threats to the country as well as deal with attempts of sabotage by reactionary forces, said President Triet.

He also asked it to contribute to the nation’s industrialisation and modernisation and take an active part in social programmes across the country, particularly in poverty reduction, education, search and rescue operations and disaster relief.

The army needs to play a core role when working with other sectors, from central to grassroots levels to build up the nation’s defence, he stressed.

He said he believed that generations of Vietnamese military officers and soldiers will continue to contribute actively and effectively to national construction and defence.

The President praised Vietnam People’s Army for advising the government when drawing up policies on defence and for its performance when defending the nation./.