The 50th national day celebration of Laos took place on the morning of 2/12 at That Luang square in the capital Vientiane. The event saw the attendance of General Secretary and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith, along with numerous high-ranking officials and international delegates, including General Secretary To Lam and his wife, according to TTXVN.

Speaking at the ceremony, General Secretary and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith highlighted That Luang square's historical significance. Fifty years ago, it was the gathering point for revolutionaries and patriotic Lao people who seized power in Vientiane. This pivotal moment led to the national congress that declared the complete abolition of colonial and feudal regimes, establishing the Lao People's Democratic Republic on 2/12/1975.

General Secretary and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith delivering a speech at the 50th national day celebration in Vientiane on the morning of 2/12. Photo: Lao News Agency

He stated that this historic event profoundly changed the nation's destiny, ushering in a new era. It enabled Laos to advance rapidly and robustly on a path of independence, self-reliance, unity, and prosperity, ensuring its people enjoy a life of freedom, happiness, and prosperity.

Following the speeches, a magnificent and solemn military and civil parade unfolded. Participants included armed forces, ministries, agencies, organizations, and socio-political groups of Laos. The parade vividly showcased the achievements made by the Lao party and people across all aspects of life, including social, economic, and national defense sectors over the past 50 years.

The military and civil parade commemorating Laos' 50th national day in Vientiane on the morning of 2/12. Photo: Lao News Agency

Lao media reported that this was one of the largest parades ever held in the country. The ceremony featured an aerial display by 4 Mi-17 helicopters, carrying the national flag, party flag, and 50th national day commemorative flag, alongside three Yak-130 aircraft.

The ceremony attracted many Lao citizens, who expressed their strong belief and trust in the nation's bright future. This future, built upon the foundations laid by previous generations, is now being developed by the current generation and will be continuously enhanced by succeeding generations to build a peaceful, independent, democratic, unified, and prosperous Laos.

Mi-17 helicopters performing at the military and civil parade commemorating Laos' 50th national day in Vientiane on the morning of 2/12. Photo: Pasaxon

Pham Giang