Before the launch ceremony, the program connected live to the flag-raising ceremony at Ba Dinh Square. Millions of people at locations across the country watched the Honor Guard, sang the national anthem, and united in their love for the nation.

This activity is part of the nationwide walking program "Step Up Vietnam," co-organized by Nhan Dan Newspaper and the Ministry of Public Security to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (19/8/1945), National Day (2/9/1945), and the People's Public Security Traditional Day (19/8/1945). Attending the launching ceremony at Ly Thai To Flower Garden were Central Committee members and co-heads of the Steering Committee: Le Quoc Minh, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, Deputy Head of the Central Propaganda and Education Commission, and President of the Vietnam Journalists Association; and Senior Lieutenant General Tran Quoc To, Deputy Minister of Public Security.

Also present were Le Hai Binh, alternate member of the Central Committee, Standing Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; Major General Pham Kim Dinh, Director of the Political Work Department, Ministry of Public Security, Deputy Head of the Steering Committee; representatives of affiliated units of the Ministry of Public Security, Hanoi Police; and representatives of ministries, branches, and central agencies.

Thousands participate in the walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. Photo: Organizing Committee

Thousands participate in the walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. Photo: Organizing Committee

Senior Lieutenant General Tran Quoc To, Deputy Minister of Public Security, considered this the beginning of a journey to build a healthy living environment, improve physical and mental well-being, and contribute to building a disciplined society and a nationwide movement to protect national security. "The program is a symbol of the united strength and the close relationship between the People's Public Security and the people," he emphasized.

Following Deputy Minister To's launch, millions of people in 34 provinces and cities began walking, contributing to the goal of "1 billion steps into a new era." In Hanoi, police officers and citizens walked around Hoan Kiem Lake, spreading the message of health improvement, demonstrating national unity and aspiration.

People participate in the "Step Up Vietnam" program. Photo: Organizing Committee

People participate in the "Step Up Vietnam" program. Photo: Organizing Committee

Le Quoc Minh, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, stated that "Step Up Vietnam" is a significant community activity, taking place as the country enters a new development phase with the rearrangement of administrative units. This is the first time a walking program has been organized simultaneously in 34 provinces and cities with over 3,300 communes and wards.

The event not only responds to the movement "All people exercise following the example of the great President Ho Chi Minh" and the movement "Healthy to build and protect the Fatherland," but also connects millions of hearts from urban to rural areas, from lowlands to highlands. "Each locality contributes to the common goal: a united and strong Vietnam, ready to enter a new era and towards a powerful future," said Le Quoc Minh.

According to the Organizing Committee, over 1.1 million people directly participated in the walk in 34 provinces and cities; over 138,000 people registered online, joining the journey of "1 billion steps into a new era."

Anh Duy