The event, which will be broadcast live on TV, aims to extend condolences to the bereaved families and stimulate frontline warriors and people in COVID-19 management.

Residents in both cities were asked to turn off lights and lit candle in memory of the deceased at the same moment.

As of November 17, Viet Nam confirmed 1,055,248 COVID-19 infection cases, including 874,870 recoveries and 23,337 deaths.

The death toll include 17,265 in Ho Chi Minh City and 42 in Ha Noi, according to the ministry of health./.