Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong congratulates outstanding elderly people for their achievements in the defense of sovereignty and the security of border areas, seas, and islands (Photo: VOV)

(VOVworld) – At a reception in Hanoi on Thursday for a delegation of elderly persons who are prominent in the defense of sovereignty and the security of border areas, seas, and islands, Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong praised their achievements and contributions.

He said border soldiers, who are the key to protecting the national border and water territory, cannot fulfill their duties without support from the people, particularly the elderly, who have prestige, experience, and a pool of knowledge. Trong went on to say:

“Our experience shows that a thing can be done sustainably if it’s done by people. Our defense should be a defense by the entire people, with the armed forces and border soldiers as a mainstay.”

Mr. Trong spoke highly of the initiative of the Vietnamese Association of the Elderly and the Border Guard High Command in organizing meetings to praise outstanding elderly persons involved in protecting national sovereignty and security. He expressed his hope that the elderly will continue to serve as a mainstay for their local administration and community.