On the evening of April 25, more than 13,000 Vietnamese personnel and soldiers from neighbouring countries took part in a grand rehearsal in Ho Chi Minh City, preparing for the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s Reunification Day on April 30.
The event featured participation from the military, police forces, militia units, and representatives from various sectors of society.
Parade formations proceeded in four directions from central Nguyen Hue Street and Le Duan Avenue, passing notable landmarks such as the Independence Palace, before dispersing towards Bach Dang Wharf, Tao Dan Park, Hoa Lu Stadium, and Le Van Tam Park.
Leading the formations were the Military Honour Guard and command vehicles bearing the national and party flags. Various military units followed, including naval militia, armoured units, logistics and technical support officers, and peacekeeping female soldiers.
International contingents drew particular attention, with troops from China, Laos and Cambodia joining the rehearsal. The Chinese military delegation arrived in Ho Chi Minh City earlier the same day, taking part in the event with coordinated formations.
As the parade units marched through the streets, tens of thousands of spectators lined the roads, waving and cheering. The highlight included the passage of the five-army representative block and the Vietnam Coast Guard unit receiving a warm welcome near Ben Thanh Market.
The rehearsal concluded successfully, with organisers set to review and refine logistics ahead of the final full-dress rehearsal scheduled for the morning of April 27.