(2 Sep 1995) Vietnamese/Nat
Vietnam celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of its declaration of independence Saturday.
As World War II ended with the surrender of Japan, Vietnamese patriarch Ho Chi Minh declared the country was free from its former colonial master - France.
His bold move half a century ago led to a long and bloody war, first with the French, then with America.
Vietnam's Communist rulers put on a glittering display to mark 50 years since the declaration of independence.
The weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of President Le Duc Anh as he paid tribute to Ho Chi Minh.
The elaborate and carefully rehearsed parade aimed to highlight the Communist Party's role as torchbearer of Vietnamese nationalism.
1995 has been a triumphant year for Vietnam's communists. Fuelled by recent foreign investment, the economy is growing and Vietnam has achieved international recognition by joining the Association of South-East Asian Nations.
More importantly perhaps, more than 20 years after the end of the Vietnam War, full diplomatic relations have been established once again with the United States, a key factor in Vietnam's economic and political progress.
Communist historian Van Tao says Vietnam has had to fight for freedom for almost a thousand years.
SOUNDBITE: (Vietnamese)
That's why independence and unification are in the national interest. The party that can represent these things will be accepted.
SUPER CAPTION: Van Tao - Communist Historian.
Peace and prosperity have brought new challenges for the ruling party. The economy still suffers from bureaucracy and harsh dictates from the central government.
Socialist habits die hard in a country where Lenin is still revered.
The government meanwhile faces increasing criticism for its persecution of Buddhists and other dissidents.
The 50th anniversary parade included elaborate floats depicting the country's economic progress.
The country's military struggle was not forgotten either.
Vietnamese patriotism remains the country's strongest, unifying force and the Communist Party works hard to maintain its nationalist credentials. A sentiment also shared by the younger generation.
SOUNDBITE:
I feel very excited and happy today because it is the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, where I was born. Secondly I am able to contribute a small part to the celebration of this big national festival.
SUPER CAPTION:Do, 14-year-old student
Vietnam finally looks as if it's heading towards a prosperous future.
But increasing wealth could undermine the Communist Party's grip on the Vietnamese people.
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