Party chief launches Tet tree planting

The ceremony was jointly hosted by the Ha Noi administration, the Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Public Security and took place simultaneously across 126 communes and wards of Ha Noi.

The Party leader recalled that on the first day of the Lunar New Year in 1960 (Canh Ty), Ho Chi Minh planted a banyan tree at Thong Nhat Park, thereby launching the "Tet tree planting" movement. The late President described tree planting as a meaningful spring activity that is inexpensive yet brings long-term benefits, encouraging people to make the country "more spring-like" through greener landscapes.

The Party chief noted that this year's launch was particularly meaningful as it took place at the Vietnamese Communist Party Museum, which preserves the Party's proud historical legacy. On this occasion, he called on the capital's Party organization, authorities and residents to continue promoting tree planting in a practical and effective manner.

Secretary of the Ha Noi Party Committee Nguyen Duy Ngoc affirmed that the "Tet tree planting – Forever remembering Uncle Ho" initiative should not be viewed as a one-off spring event but as a regular and long-term task. He stressed that tree planting must be aligned with urban planning, maintenance and protection efforts, and incorporated into Ha Noi's broader strategy for green urban development, green growth and improved air quality.

He emphasized the city's determination to realize the vision of "forest in the city – city in the forest" over the next century and beyond. Ha Noi will step up greening efforts along streets, at city gateways, in new urban developments and rural areas; establish ecological belts; gradually increase green space per capita; and strengthen citywide management of tree data to ensure a healthier and more livable environment for residents.

After 66 years of implementation in line with his teachings, the movement has produced visible changes nationwide. Many barren hills have been reforested, degraded forests restored, and both urban and rural areas have gained more greenery. Forest coverage has expanded, and environmental awareness has increasingly taken root among citizens. The campaign has evolved into a distinctive cultural tradition and a broad-based public movement, contributing significantly to national development.

Ha Noi aims to plant 80,000 – 100,000 trees in the festival's first phase by the end of March and raise the figure to about 400,000 this year. The Ministries of National Defence and Public Security also target to plant 1.2 million and 3 million trees, respectively./.