Vientiane (VNA) – A grand requiem took place at Phat Tich Pagoda in the Lao capital of Vientiane on the evening of March 6 to honour the fallen soldiers and victims from both Vietnam and Laos, including the 64 Vietnamese soldiers who perished in the 1988 Gac Ma battle in Vietnam's Truong Sa (Spratly).
The event was attended by former Vice State President of Vietnam Truong My Hoa, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Minh Tam, officials of some Lao agencies, and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Laos.
Speaking at the ceremony, Venerable Thich Minh Quang, head of Phat Tich Pagoda, recalled the heroic sacrifice by the 64 soldiers on March 14, 1988 in defence of Vietnam’s maritime sovereignty. He said that the Gac Ma battle demonstrates the unwavering courage and determination of the Vietnamese naval soldiers.
He further noted that the commemoration event was not only an opportunity to educate younger generations about patriotism but also a solemn occasion to express gratitude to those who laid down their lives for national independence.
Phonchay Phanthavong, deputy head of the Lao war veterans’ association, expressed deep appreciation of the contributions by Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts, who fought bravely alongside the Lao people for the liberation of both countries.
He asked the younger generations of Vietnam and Laos, especially students who benefit from the invaluable legacy of independence and freedom, to keep in mind the dedications by forerunners. He called on them to strive to become responsible citizens, thus contributing to society and strengthening the two countries’ great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation./.
Requiem for Vietnamese, Lao martyrs held in Oudomxay
A requiem for Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who laid down their lives in Laos and heroic martyrs of Laos were held at the Vietnam-Laos Combat Alliance Monument in Laos’ Oudomxay province on December 22.
