Vietnamese General urges veterans to help keep peace

One of Vietnam's most senior military commanders, General Vo Nguyen Giap, has urged a meeting of war veterans to help maintain social stability.

In a speech to the Vietnam Veterans Association, broadcast on local television, General Giap said veterans should defend the Communist party against civil disorder and subversion.

Earlier this year, there were a series of violent protests in several provinces against high taxes and alleged corruption in local government.

According to residents, veterans were among those who took part.

Correspondents say the comments from 85-year-old General Giap, who is revered as a national hero (),indicate the authorities in Vietnam are taking the unrest seriously.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service