Contests for Army Games 2021 begin in Vietnam on August 31, 2021.(Photo: VOV)

This is the first time Vietnam has hosted contests of the Army Games, which once again affirms the sound cooperation among the militaries of Vietnam, Russia, and other countries. The contests in Vietnam, slated until Friday, see the participation of Bangladesh, Belarus, Laos, Mali, Russia, Uzbekistan, and Venezuela.

(Photo: VOV)

"The contest reflects the close cooperation between the Vietnam People’s Army and the armies of Russia in particular and other countries in general," said Nguyen Van Nghia, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and head of the contest organising board.

"Participating in the contest, our soldiers will improve their skills, learn experience, and strengthen their capacity against traditional and non-traditional security challenges. This is also an opportunity for us to promote cultural exchanges with other countries, introduce Vietnam’s culture, land and hospitality, and strengthen understanding and friendship with other countries," he said.

Vietnamese culture and made-in-Vietnam weapons are also featured as part of the event.

Army Games 2021, organised by Russia, is scheduled for August 22 - September 4 with 34 contests and 260 teams from 45 countries. Competition events are held in 11 countries.