Speaking at the 80th anniversary of the General Staff on 6/9, Party General Secretary and Central Military Commission Secretary To Lam commended the department for its accomplishments over the past eight decades. He praised its embodiment of Vietnamese military prowess, intellect, and strategy, leading to numerous victories and outstanding achievements.

He affirmed the General Staff's position as the highest command and advisory body of the Vietnam People's Army and the Vietnam People's Self-Defense Force, upholding its tradition of "Loyalty - Strategy, Dedication - Creativity, Unity - Coordination, Determination to Fight - Determination to Win".

General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense, and other Ministry of National Defense leaders welcome Party General Secretary To Lam. Photo: Trong Hai

Amidst complex international and regional circumstances and increasing hostile activities, national defense faces significant challenges. General Secretary To Lam emphasized the importance of adhering to the Politburo's resolution on the organization of the Vietnam People's Army from 2021 to 2030. He directed the General Staff to develop a concrete plan for military modernization with practical, definitive, and feasible milestones, criteria, and appropriate investment in modern equipment.

To effectively fulfill its strategic advisory role, the General Staff should inherit and promote the essence of national military arts, selectively absorb and creatively apply advanced global military science and technology. "Elevate Vietnamese military science and art to new heights," the General Secretary urged.

The General Staff must proactively forecast developments, especially strategic adjustments by major powers and the situation in the South China Sea. This will enable the army to propose strategic and tactical guidelines, manage international relations effectively, and proactively prevent the risk of war and conflict.

He also tasked the General Staff with developing a contingent of leaders at all levels, strategic advisors, and leading experts with strong political resolve. Each individual should possess strategic thinking, acumen, and adaptability in assessing and handling situations.

Drawing on the General Staff's 80-year legacy, the General Secretary expressed confidence in the continued growth and successful completion of all assigned tasks by its officers, staff, soldiers, and employees.

At the ceremony, on behalf of the Party and State leaders, General Secretary To Lam conferred the title of "Hero of the People's Armed Forces" upon the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army.

General Secretary To Lam confers the title of "Hero of the People's Armed Forces" upon the General Staff. Photo: Trong Hai

Earlier, General Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the General Staff and Deputy Minister of National Defense, recounted the establishment of the General Staff on 7/9/1945 under the direction of President Ho Chi Minh, who entrusted Hoang Van Thai with its formation.

The General Staff, as a confidential military body and a crucial component of the army, is responsible for organizing and training the army effectively; gathering intelligence on both allies and adversaries; devising astute strategies; and ensuring seamless, confidential, swift, timely, and accurate command to secure victory against all enemies and safeguard the revolutionary achievements.

Over the past 80 years, the General Staff has continuously developed and achieved remarkable feats in both the national liberation war and the cause of national construction and defense.

In recognition of these accomplishments, the General Staff has been honored with the Gold Star Order, the Ho Chi Minh Order, the first-class Military Exploit Order, the second-class Military Exploit Order, and numerous other prestigious awards for both collectives and individuals.

Son Ha