Vietnam marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon with its biggest celebration today in Ho Chi Minh City. For the first time, over 300 Chinese troops are participating in the parade alongside Vietnamese, Laotian, and Cambodian soldiers. This inclusion highlights Vietnam's complex relationship with China and its "bamboo diplomacy" of balancing ties with both Beijing and Washington, especially after a recent visit from Xi Jinping. While the US and Vietnam are now trade partners, Hanoi aims to maintain good standing with both global powers. The anniversary also emphasizes reconciliation, urging people to move past wartime divisions. Despite a young population, there's significant excitement for the commemoration.