Scholars, activists, and the public still argue about the Vietnam War, including over American motivations to intervene, the viability of the South Vietnamese government, and if the U.S. lost the war or gave up its objectives due to domestic pressure.

A focus away from the past and on how the private sector can lead future economic growth underscored celebrations in the capital of the former South Vietnam.

Celebrations come as Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten to strain progress made in US-Vietnam relations in recent years