(VOVworld) - A memorial service to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Vietnam’s independence was held at Khuong Viet Pagoda on the outskirts of Paris on Saturday.

The event attracted a large number of Overseas Vietnamese (OVs) living in France and Buddhist followers, aiming to promote solidarity amongst Vietnamese people both at home and abroad. Two maps of Truong Sa (Spartly) and Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands were displayed amid memorabilia honoring the soldiers who laid down their lives to protect Vietnam’s national sovereignty.

Most Venerable Thich Tinh Quang, head monk of Khuong Viet pagoda, said: “This service stems from national patriotism to show our gratitude to the soldiers who laid down their lives for the homeland. This is also a message to call on Vietnamese people at home and abroad to unite and contribute to national construction and defense.”