The Việt Nam People's Army delegation participates in the parade on Red Square in Moscow on May 9. — VNA/VNS Photos Thống Nhất

MOSCOW — The Việt Nam People’s Army (VPA) sent a delegation of officers and soldiers to take part in this year's grand military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of Russia's triumph in the Great Patriotic War (May 9), held in Red Square, Moscow.

The Vietnamese military delegation, comprising 68 members, was among the 13 participating foreign armed forces that have close relations with Russia. For the parade, 64 troops marched in an 8x8 formation, along with 3 personnel who carried the national flag and the bloc leader.

This is the first the Vietnamese military has taken part in an abroad military parade.

Russia’s invitation for Việt Nam to dispatch a military contingent to the parade not only reflects its respect for and high regard of Việt Nam’s role, but also serves as vivid testimony to the traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, especially in the field of defence cooperation.

The Việt Nam People's Army delegation participates in the parade on Red Square in Moscow on May 9. — VNA/VNS Photos Thống Nhất

The VPA’s participation in the parade is of particular political and diplomatic significance. It contributes to strengthening strategic trust between the two militaries and demonstrates Việt Nam’s enduring solidarity and loyalty towards countries that have stood alongside and supported Việt Nam in its cause of national defence and development.

The VPA delegation’s presence at the parade also serves as an opportunity to enhance the image, stature, and capability of the Việt Nam People’s Army on the international stage.

General Secretary Tô Lâm and spouse Ngô Phương Ly along with a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation also joined other world leaders in the commemoration, as part of their official visit to Russia.

General Secretary Tô Lâm and spouse Ngô Phương Ly looked on as the Vietnamese military delegation marched past the stand for world leaders. — Photo from the live broadcast

More photos of the Vietnamese soldiers on this historic day:

The Việt Nam People's Army delegation participates in the parade on Red Square in Moscow on May 9. — VNA/VNS Photos Thống Nhất

Việt Nam People's Army contingent. — Photo from Russian news agency RIA Novosti