Oct 12, 2011

Laos - Independence Day spurs nation to greater success


Independence Day marks the date when the people of Laos claimed ownership of their country after more than 100 years spent living under the yoke of oppression, which created divisions in the nation.

October 12, 1945, was previously known as Lao National Day before this was changed to December 2, 1975, after full liberation of the country and the declaration of the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

More than 1,000 people gathered at the National Culture Hall in Vientiane Wednesday to commemorate the 66th anniversary of Independence Day, one of the most significant days in Lao history.

The event was attended by Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong, Vientiane Mayor Soukanh Mahalath and other high-ranking officials.

Soukanh's address to the gathering highlighted the history of Laos beginning in the era of the Lane Xang Kingdom which was consolidated by King Fa-Ngum in 1353 and 100 years later split into three separate kingdoms.

He explained that a lack of solidarity between the nation's feudal lords was the main cause for the split, which led to a period of colonial rule that lasted for more than 100 years.

October 12 marks the beginning of a new era when people are encouraged and eager to struggle fearlessly against enemies for the salvation of their motherland.

"On this day, we officially announced to the world that we were an independent nation with our own territorial integrity and our own constitution and national flag," Soukanh said.

The victory declared on October 12, 1945, was the result of the clear-sighted leadership of the Indochinese Communist Party and the solidarity of the people from the three Indochina nations–Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Independence Day paved the way for the Party and people to gain valuable experience in building up the revolutionary forces and strengthening their courage in the fight against their enemies.

The Lao People's Revolutionary Party was formed in 1955 as a separate entity from the Indochinese Com munist Party. Under the leadership of the Party, the Lao people fought against the United States and were eventually victorious in 1975.

Soukanh observed that the full victory gained in 1975 could partly be attributed to Independence Day in 1945 because it ushered in a period of growth and confidence for the Lao revolutionary movement in the fight against colonialism.

He urged all Party members, soldiers, police officers, and people from all walks of life to learn from the past in order to contribute to future national protection and development.

During yesterday's meeting, Prime Minister Thongsing awarded medals to prominent officials and sectors that had worked hard and contributed significantly to events to mark Vientiane's 450th anniversary in 2010.

Other officials also received certificates of congratulations from the government for their dedication to the event.

The News Desk
Vientiane Times



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