Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong visited people in the revolutionary base area of Hiep Duc district, Quang Nam province. Photo: Vu Quang Hung/VOV

Ho Thi Anh Tho of the Xo Dang ethnic group in Hiep Duc district will never forget the gentle smile of the Party leader when meeting local people. The General Secretary impressed people with his warmth and encouraged them to develop their economy and stabilize their lives, Anh Tho said. “Hearing the news of General Secretary Trong's passing, I felt heartbroken. He reserved great affection for the Ca Dong, Mo Nong, and Kinh people. He always advised people to stay united, and pay attention to local socio-economic development and national defense and security, especially in Hiep Duc, a revolutionary cradle.”

In Quang Binh province, Tran Thi Hoa and her husband Vo Quy Thanh heard the news of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong's passing broadcast on the Voice of Vietnam while the couple were casting nets on the sea. Hoa remembers well her family welcoming the Party leader on a visit to their home nine years ago because her mother-in-law was a Heroic Mother. The meeting that day was warm, friendly and an honor for the family, said Hoa.

 “We were very sad to hear the news of Uncle Trong's death. We have lost an exemplary leader of the Party and the State, a very simple person, living close to the people, loving the people, and taking care of people.”