Chinese, Lao, Cambodian troops join grand rehearsal for reunification parade in Ho Chi Minh City

The parade began with the firing of canon on Bach Dang Wharf Park, nearly 2 km away, followed by various military units marching from Le Duan Street in front of the palace through the city’s central streets.

Following the parade’s passage through the main stage, the troops divided into four groups to spread out towards Bach Dang Wharf, Tao Dan Park, Hoa Lu Stadium, and Le Van Tam Park. This division was intended to reduce congestion and allow the troops to interact with the spectators along the streets.

One of the highlights of the rehearsal was the participation of Chinese, Lao, and Cambodian troops. More than 100 Chinese soldiers, along with Lao and Cambodian contingents, marched in the parade, their movements coordinated with the Vietnamese forces. Lao soldiers were seen shaking hands and interacting with the crowd, emphasizing the camaraderie between the countries.

The streets of Ho Chi Minh City were packed with people who eagerly awaited the parade’s arrival, some from the previous night. From the early hours of the morning, locals gathered along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, while others found higher ground to capture the spectacle. People cheered as the troops passed by, with many stopping to take photos with military trucks and vehicles on display.

In addition to the march, the skies above the city were filled with excitement as fighter jets and helicopters flew overhead. Four Su-30MK2 fighter jets from Bien Hoa dropped heat traps above central Ho Chi Minh City, impressing the crowds.

The parade rehearsal, joined by over 13,000 participants, including military, police, and civilian units, provided a preview of the larger event set to take place on April 30, marking Vietnam’s 50th reunification anniversary.