Hanoi (VNA) ﷽– As Vietnam celebrates the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification (April 30, 1975 – 2025), the joy reaches far beyond its borders. Across continents, millions of overseas Vietnamese are marking the occasion with pride, emotion, and a sense of connection to their homeland.

Standing in solidarity with the homeland

These days, many overseas Vietnamese have travelled back to Ho Chi Minh City to take part in the grand celebrations. Among the 120 representatives invited to join the national parade were Tran Phu Thuan, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Union of Vietnamese Associations in Russia; Pham Dinh Thuong, Chairman of the Vietnamese Association in Saitama, Japan; and couple Nguyen Quang Thanh and Nguyen Thi My Van from the US. Despite decades abroad, Thuan called April 30 “a date of great national importance,” closing a chapter of struggle against foreign invaders and ushering in a new era of independence and unity. He praised the country’s transformation and national unity as its greatest intrinsic strength. Thuong said he felt his heart beat in unison with millions at home and abroad. “The Party and State have always affirmed that overseas Vietnamese are an inseparable part of the nation,” he said, expressing hope for more opportunities to contribute to national development. Thanh expressed his honour at being part of such a meaningful event. “It reflects the State’s recognition of the overseas Vietnamese community’s role in fostering unity and contributing to the nation’s future,” he said.

Tapping into global expertise

Among 50 individuals honoured for their contributions to Ho Chi Minh City, Tran Hai Linh, a member of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee and President of the Vietnam-Korea Businessmen and Investment Association, spoke proudly of the country’s resilience. He noted how Vietnam has grown from a war-torn past into a dynamic economy with growing global influence. He highlighted the overseas Vietnamese business community as a valuable resource for sustainable growth, bringing international experience, technology, and investment. They can also expand export markets and support green and digital transitions. Overseas entrepreneurs are more than economic contributors, Linh said, adding that they are cultural ambassadors, playing a crucial role in people-to-people diplomacy.

Pride in identity, wherever they are

Although unable to return this year, Canada-based Kieu Linh Anh said she closely followed the celebrations online, with her social media feeds filled with images of parades and heartfelt stories. For her, Vietnam remains a spiritual home. She teaches her children Vietnamese language, cuisine, and traditions to ensure they grow up proud of their roots. “The homeland is our source of strength – it nurtures our belief, pride, and love,” she shared. In Japan, Dinh Hung Cuong found joy in the patriotic songs sung by children and the sight of hundreds of Vietnamese flags across Fukuoka. He hopes young people will continue learning about Vietnam’s proud history and strive to contribute to its future./.