Vietnam's 500-Day Campaign: 664 Sets of War Martyrs' Remains Found

The "500-Day Campaign" in Vietnam has successfully recovered 1,715 sets of war martyrs' remains as of August 12, 2026, reaching 24.5% of its target. Launched on March 15, the campaign aims to accelerate the search, recovery, and identification of fallen soldiers' remains. In Ho Chi Minh City, the Military Command is calling on veterans, former Saigon commandos, historical witnesses, long-time local residents, and relatives of fallen soldiers to provide information related to battles, names of cadres and soldiers, and military and commando units involved in the 1968 Tet Offensive. This effort seeks to accurately document war memories and bring solace to bereaved families. Vietnam prioritizes such recovery activities as part of its efforts to heal war wounds and foster national unity. Within its single-party system, honoring war sacrifices can strengthen the regime's legitimacy and promote patriotism. As the nation continues its economic growth, addressing past legacies and learning from them signifies the overall maturity of Vietnamese society. Amidst complex historical ties, Vietnam and China are advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership. Increased cooperation between the Ho Chi Minh City Red Cross Society and the Red Cross Society of China is expected to strengthen the foundation of friendship and usher in a new phase of more substantive cooperation. Vietnam is also focusing on digital transformation. Ca Mau province is implementing a 100-day campaign to remove bottlenecks in digital transformation and improve public services, concentrating on online administrative procedures, digital data, and digital infrastructure, aiming to enhance public convenience and administrative efficiency. Internationally, Vietnam is advancing cooperation with the US, including additional funding for dioxin remediation at Bien Hoa Air Base and support for improving the quality of life for people with disabilities in Agent Orange-affected areas. In education, Country Programme Documents for 2027–2031 between Vietnam and UN development agencies will mobilize international resources for Sustainable Development Goals. The plan to connect Vietnam's national digital identification application VNeID with Singapore's and Laos' electronic identification systems aims to expand digital connectivity within ASEAN. Hanoi will host an International Conference on Education Cooperation in the Digital Era to deepen discussions on educational technology. Meanwhile, issues regarding the inadequate supply of textbooks have prompted the Prime Minister to order a review to clarify responsibilities and ensure regulatory compliance, highlighting the need for administrative efficiency and accountability within Vietnam's single-party system. Urban development in Vietnam is progressing, with Ho Chi Minh City named one of the "Cities to Watch" in the Asia-Pacific region. However, flood damage underscores the importance of infrastructure development and disaster prevention measures. Source: VietnamPlus English