Hanoi, Aug. 29 -- Distinguished guests,

Dear comrades, compatriots, and international friends,

Today, amid the solemn and triumphant atmosphere of these historic autumn days, in our thousand-year-old capital of Ha Noi, we gather in great solemnity to celebrate the 81st National Day of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam-a glorious milestone in our nation's history of national construction, defense, and development.

On behalf of the Party, State, and People of Viet Nam, I extend my warmest greetings, most heartfelt greetings, and best wishes to the leaders and former leaders of the Party, State, National Assembly, and the Viet Nam Fatherland Front; to our revolutionary veterans, Heroes of the Armed Forces, Heroes of Labor, intellectuals,...