President Nguyen Minh Triet burnt incense and laid floral wreaths at the Hung Kings Temple dedicated to the nation’s founders on the traditional day of commemorating them, which falls on April 23 this year.

The temple is located in Nghia Linh mountain, Hy Cuong commune, Viet Tri city of the midland province of Phu Tho .

In his speech, President Triet expressed his gratefulness to the ancestors, Late President Ho Chi Minh, revolutionary veterans, heroic mothers, fallen combatants and their families and people and soldiers nationwide for their sacrifice and devotion to the country’s independence and freedom and the happiness of the people.

He also called upon all Vietnamese people at home and abroad to join in efforts to uphold the national unity block to build a stronger and wealthier Vietnam .

Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Tien Tho then delivered an oration praising the great merit of the Hung Kings.

The solemn celebration was also marked by a 100-strong parade of youths in traditional costumes, symbolising the first 100 Vietnamese children born according to the Mother Au Co legend.

The same day, celebrations in commemoration of the Hung Kings were held in many localities nationwide./.