Photo: Róbert Hegedüs
15/05/2025 06:00
As Co-Chair of the Hungarian-Vietnamese Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation, allow me to introduce You to this special publication marking the 75th anniversary of Hungarian-Vietnamese diplomatic relations. In 1950, Hungary was among the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam, and over the past 75 years, our cooperation has been continuously developing symbolizing a long-standing friendship built on mutual respect and shared values. I am proud that, despite the considerable geographical distance, a strong bond has been built between our countries, which we have elevated to the level of comprehensive partnership during the visit of the late Secretary General Nguyen Phu Trong in 2018.
Allow me to briefly review the key areas of bilateral cooperation. Hungarian-Vietnamese economic ties are thriving: trade is expanding, and investment opportunities offer mutual benefits. I am proud to note that in 2024, bilateral trade turnover surpassed 800 million dollars, reflecting the strength of our economic relations. Health collaboration provides a solid foundation for addressing future challenges, and we are proud that Hungarian pharmaceutical companies are already present and operating successfully in Vietnam.
Education and culture also play a vital role in our partnership. Hungarian scholarships have trained Vietnamese professionals for decades. We are delighted that Vietnam has been part of the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme since its inception in 2013. Under the Programme, we offer to 200 Vietnamese students the opportunity to study in Hungary, annually. I am pleased to observe that interest in the programme is high, with applications exceeding available slots. The Hungarian Club at our Embassy in Hanoi advances bilateral ties by promoting Hungarian culture, while academic exchanges further strengthen people-to-people connections. We firmly believe that youth and education programmes, scholarships, and research projects reinforce links between young people, which is essential for future cooperation. Furthermore, we see great potential in expanding our partnership in sports, including state-level collaboration in teqball, highlighted by a major international tournament in Ho Chi Minh City to mark this year’s jubilee. Vietnam and Hungary’s joint role in strengthening ASEAN-EU relations also presents outstanding opportunities, especially in the field of trade.
The past 75 years of bilateral relations serve as an inspiration for the future, and Hungary remains committed to further developing its cooperation with Vietnam. The 75th anniversary of Hungarian-Vietnamese diplomatic relations not only honors past achievements but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in our enduring partnership.