VIETNAM: 12-THOUSAND PRISONERS RELEASED

Vietnamese/Nat More than 12-thousand Vietnamese prisoners were released nationwide on Sunday as part of a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the country's reunification. Ex-murderers, ex-drug traffickers, ex-thieves, were all being release as long as they served over a third of their sentence. It was a victory against all odds, and the Vietnamese government wants to share its joy with everyone - even those it has condemned. At Thu Duc Prison in Binh Thuan province, 130 kilometres from Ho Chi Minh City, four hundred and twelve inmates were released. They were but a fraction of the thousands across the country who rediscovered their freedom to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the reunification of Vietnam. SOUNDBITE: (Vietnamese) "I feel very happy this morning just like I have been reborn. I never thought I could rejoin society because I was serving a life sentence. I couldn't imagine that one day I would go home, but now it is happening." SUPER CAPTION: Lam Tuyen, released prisoner Lam Tuyen is not the only one who is surprised. The mood had the festive feel of a college graduation ceremony, as murderers and drug dealers, among others, who had served at least a third of their sentences, were released. Many were elated as they anticipated reunions with spouses and relatives just outside the front gate. But there were also sad stories from inmates such as Vu, who knew no one would be greeting them. She'd served 17 years for throwing acid on her husband. SOUNDBITE: (Vietnamese) "I am very happy and moved because I am enjoying this special amnesty on the day the country celebrates the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the South." SUPER CAPTION: Vu Thi Hong Van, released prisoner This day was to mark a new era for Vietnam, which is now aiming for a higher economic growth rate, the elimination of corruption and less restrictive policies as expressed by Ho Chi Minh City mayor Vo Viet Thanh. SOUNDBITE: (Vietnamese) "This represents the policy of the Party and the State of Vietnam to give an amnesty to people who show remorse for their crimes and who want to make amends." SUPER CAPTION: Prison Director Hothanh Dinh As prisoners wish to make amends, so too do Vietnam and the United States - once bitter enemies, now trying to put the past behind them, a quarter of a century on. You can license this story through AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/metadata/youtube/8357b67ad0f4926d1457759b6bca37cb Find out more about AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/HowWeWork