 The Vietnam International Defense Exhibition 2024 opened on December 19 (Photo: Duc Anh/VOV5) |
The grand opening ceremony featured a special art performance by more than 2,000 officers and soldiers from the Vietnam People's Army, an impressive flyover by the Vietnam Air Force, martial arts demonstrations by Special Forces, and skillful performances by the Border Guard Dogs unit.
In his address, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said the exhibition's theme, "Peace - Cooperation - Development", underscored its role in advancing diplomatic and defense cooperation across various sectors.
 Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Duc Anh/VOV5) |
Prime Minister Chinh said: "Vietnam is a nation that cherishes peace, righteousness, and justice in its international partnerships. We actively foster diplomacy and defense collaboration to strengthen friendship, mutual understanding, and trust building to address common security challenges, prevent conflicts and wars in line with fundamental principles of international law, and contribute to regional and global peace, cooperation, and development. Having endured immense pain, sacrifice, and loss from wars, we deeply value the significance of friendship for peace and development."
 Delegates at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Duc Anh/VOV5) |
The Prime Minister reiterated Vietnam's commitment to building a proactive, independent, self-reliant, modern, and globally integrated defense industry.
He said: "The Vietnam International Defense Exhibition 2024 symbolizes Vietnam's role in and contributions to fostering defense and national collaboration. It represents trust, respect, and goodwill among nations striving for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous world. It also reflects the support and meaningful affection of international friends for Vietnam, its land, people and heroic army of a heroic nation which always remains sincere, trustworthy, and responsible in its international relations."
At the exhibition, Vietnam is showcasing 69 types of equipment and weaponry. Additionally, the event includes cultural displays highlighting the country's rich heritage, the vibrant spirit of its people, and the Vietnam People's Army's 80-year tradition of excellence and achievement.