Quang Tri: Flag-raising ceremony marks National Reunification Day. (Photo: VNA)

A flag-raising ceremony was solemnly held by the central province of Quang Tri at the Hien Luong – Ben Hai special national monument on April 30 to mark the 48th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day, and 51st anniversary of Liberation of Quang Tri province (May 1, 1972-2023).

The national flag was raised to the peak of the monument as the national anthem was being played.

Participants observed a minute of silence in memory of those who laid down their lives for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland and happiness of the people.

The Hien Luong – Ben Hai special national monument is located at the foot of Hien Luong Bridge across Ben Hai River.

Ben Hai River divided North and South Vietnam after the signing of the Geneva Accords in 1954. Though the river is just over 100m wide, it took 21 years for the Vietnamese people on the two banks to be united.

The river and the bridge are witnesses to the Vietnamese people's fierce but glorious struggle against foreign invaders and a reflection of their desire for and belief in victory.

Quang Tri was one of the most heavily bombed areas during the anti-US resistance war. The province was also renowned for the fierce 81-day-and-night battle at the ancient Quang Tri Citadel.

Within the event’s framework, Quang Tri province launched a design contest for apeace symbol, to be erected at the Peace Park in the Hien Luong – Ben Hai special national relic site.

On the occasion, a traditional boat race on Ben Hai River was held.