The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh, officials from central and provincial authorities, heroic Vietnamese Mothers, former soldiers, visitors and local residents.

During the Vietnam War, the Ben Hai River was the natural landmark that separated northern and southern Vietnam and the Hien Luong Bridge crossing the river was a symbol of the agony of partition and the aspiration for reunification.

In his speech at the flag-raising ceremony, Quang Tri Secretary Nguyen Van Hung recalled the wartime years when the province was the fiercest battlefield and the direct home-front of the southern battleground.

Despite being blasted with dozens of tonnes of bombs, ammunition and toxic chemicals, the people of Quang Tri remained steadfast and held onto their land until the final victory.

The province was liberated in 1972 and, after 47 years since liberation, Quang Tri has gradually overcome its difficulties to record significant achievements in all fields.

The flag-raising ceremony was an occasion to look back on the memories of a heroic period, honour the brilliant feats and pay tribute to the enormous sacrifices of the previous generations.

After the ceremony, Deputy PM Truong Hoa Binh paid a visit to the Truong Son National Cemetery, Route 9 Cemetery and the ancient citadel of Quang Tri.

Deputy PM Truong Hoa Binh leads a delegation to walk on the Hien Luong Bridge from the northern bank to the southern bank of the Ben Hai River.

Balloons are released to mark the reunification of northern and southern Vietnam.