
People offer incense to mark the first anniversary of the passing of late Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at his hometown in Dong Anh Commune on July 8.
A delegation from Bac Ninh Province, dressed in traditional ao dai, arrived at the Van Chi ancestral hall in Lai Da Village, Trong’s hometown, at dawn to offer incense and pay tribute. Resident Nguyen Thi Hoa was moved to tears as she lit incense for the late leader she deeply admired.

High school student Do Phuong Linh and her classmates from Ly Thuong Kiet High School also made the journey to Lai Da to honour Trong. “We are grateful for his lifelong dedication to the country,” Linh said. “This is our way of expressing respect and gratitude to a great man.”

As the morning progressed, more visitors arrived, people of all ages, carrying incense and fresh flowers, quietly bowing before the altar of the late statesman.
At Mai Dich Cemetery in Hanoi, crowds began to gather as early as 7.30 am for the official commemoration.

People pay tribute to late Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at Mai Dich Cemetery in Hanoi on July 8.
At 6 am, members of Trong’s family held a private memorial service. Senior leaders of the Party, State, Hanoi city authorities, and government agencies also attended to pay their respects.
In a solemn atmosphere, mourners lined up to offer incense at the former leader’s grave. Many families came with multiple generations, bringing flowers and offerings in remembrance of the man whose legacy continues to inspire.