“Victory of Faith”: Vietnam Marks 50 Years Since the End of the Vietnam War

Vietnam celebrated the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, which marked the official end of the Vietnam War on April 30, 1975. Known in Vietnam as the “Day of Southern Liberation for National Reunification,” this anniversary is of deep historical significance, symbolizing the triumph of communist North Vietnam over the U.S.-supported South. The 2025 celebrations included military parades, an air show, and diplomatic gestures involving both China and the U.S., reflecting Vietnam’s evolving international relationships.

Why in the News?

On April 30, 2025, Vietnam marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War with grand celebrations, including a military parade in Ho Chi Minh City. The event commemorated the fall of Saigon in 1975, symbolizing the reunification of Vietnam and the victory of North Vietnam over U.S.-backed South Vietnam.

Aim of the Celebrations

• To commemorate the reunification of Vietnam.
• To pay tribute to the soldiers and civilians who fought in the 20-year Vietnam War.
• To showcase Vietnam’s growing military capabilities and diplomatic ties.

Historical Background

The Vietnam War (1955–1975) was a conflict between,

• North Vietnam (supported by the USSR, China)
• South Vietnam (supported by the U.S. and its allies)
• Saigon, capital of South Vietnam, fell on April 30, 1975, leading to reunification.

The war caused

• ~3 million Vietnamese deaths
• ~60,000 American deaths

Key Facts from 2025 Celebrations

• Military Parade in Ho Chi Minh City with thousands of troops
• Air show with Russian fighter jets and helicopters
• Participation of 118 Chinese troops
• U.S. representation by Susan Burns, Consul General
• Parade was attended by top Vietnamese leaders, including Party chief To Lam

Vietnam’s Global Relations

• U.S.-Vietnam ties normalized in 1995
• Strengthened in 2023 during U.S. President Biden’s visit
• Currently facing strain due to proposed 46% tariffs under Donald Trump’s administration
• Russia remains Vietnam’s top arms supplier
• China is both a major investor and a historical rival (especially in the South China Sea)

Static GK & Geography

• Capital of Vietnam – Hanoi
• Largest City – Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon)
• Currency – Vietnamese đồng (VND)
• Current Communist Party Chief – To Lam
• Previous Colonial Power – France
• War-ending Year – 1975
• Reunification Year – 1976