HCMC – Respect-paying ceremonies for former President Tran Duc Luong began today morning (May 25) at three different locations in the country as the nation pays tribute to one of its long-serving leaders.
The respect-paying ceremony at the National Funeral Hall at 5 Tran Thanh Tong Street in Hanoi City commenced at 7 a.m. Incumbent and former leaders of the Party and State, military officers, and members of the public gathered to offer their condolences and honor his contributions to the country.
Simultaneous ceremonies are being held at the Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City and at Military Command Headquarters T50 in Quang Ngai Province, allowing citizens across regions to join in mourning.
The burial is scheduled for 3 p.m. in his hometown of Pho Khanh Commune, Duc Pho Town, Quang Ngai Province.
Former President Tran Duc Luong passed away at 10:51 p.m. on May 20 at his residence in Hanoi’s Ba Dinh District after a prolonged illness, despite dedicated care from medical professionals and family members. He was 88.
He joined the revolution in February 1955 and became a member of the Communist Party of Vietnam on December 19, 1959. His distinguished career included serving as a member of the Party’s Central Committee for the 5th to 9th terms, a member of the Politburo for the 8th and 9th terms, and a standing member of the Politburo during the 8th term. He held key positions, including deputy prime minister from October 1992 to August 1997 and president of Vietnam, as well as chairman of the National Defense and Security Council during the 10th and 11th terms. He was also a National Assembly deputy for the 7th, 8th, 10th, and 11th terms.
In recognition of his decades of service, he was awarded the Gold Star Order, the nation’s highest honor, along with the 65-year Party Membership Badge and various other prestigious decorations.
The two-day mourning period reflects the deep respect and gratitude of the Party, State, and people for Tran Duc Luong’s contributions to national development and unity.
Members of youth unions, student groups, and children in HCMC attend the respect-paying ceremony – PHOTO: VGP
