Known as the stronghold of the nation’s revolutionary movement, Viengxay Cave City in Houaphanh Province celebrated the 50th National Day anniversary on Sunday, 2 December 2018.
Addressing the event, Vice President Phankham Viphavanh said that today the Party, government and people of Houaphanh Province, along with people throughout the country, had organised this national celebration to mark the 50th anniversary of the Viengxay liberation forces’ command centre.
This momentous occasion was honoured by the presence of President Bounnhang Vorachit, along with high-ranking officials and local residents at a grand celebration in the district’s main stadium.
President Bounnhang said that people across the country were happy and proud to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of Viengxay, the 43rd anniversary of the liberation of Laos, and the 98th anniversary of the birth of former President Kaysone Phomvihane.
“We recall the great deeds of President Kaysone Phomvihane, who set the country on the mission to liberate our nation, and other leaders of the Party and State, people of all ethnic groups, advisors from Vietnam and our friendly partners for the sacrifices they made for the independence and the well-being of our people,” President Bounnhang said.
Thousands of people attended the celebratory activities that took place in Viengxay district from November 28-30. Visitors were entertained with stage shows, product fairs, and exhibitions.
In addition, a convoy consisting of 126 vehicles and nearly 600 people travelled to Viengxay from Vientiane and the provinces.
However, the main ceremony took place on 2 December, centring on a grand parade that included more than 20 groups.
Before the parade took place, leaders laid a wreath at the Unknown Soldier Monument and the Kaysone Phomvihane and Souphanouvong memorials.
Many visitors toured the caves which housed the offices of the revolutionary leaders as they devised strategies that resulted in the defeat of their enemies. The caves witnessed the birth of the Lao PDR and today serve to teach visitors from far and near about the revolutionary struggle.
A tour allows people to explore the caves inhabited by former presidents Kaysone Phomvihane, Souphanouvong and Nouhak Phomsavanh, Khamtay Siphandone, and Xanglort.
The provincial capital of Houaphanh, Sam Neua, is home to a majestic city pillar which rises from the town centre.
It has a large crystal ball at its apex that glistens in the sunset. It too celebrates the site of the revolutionary movement.
Viengxay can be reached by private vehicle and bus from Vientiane or from Luang Prabang and Xieng Khuang provinces and also from Son La province in Vietnam. Lao Skyway offers flights from Vientiane to Houaphanh
Source: Vientiane Times
