Vietnam is poised to become an even more significant hub for trade, investment, and innovation: Hungarian Ambassador
On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Vietnam-Hungary diplomatic relations, the Hungarian Ambassador to Vietnam, Baloghdi Tibor, shared with the World and Vietnam Report the highlights of bilateral relations and his expectation for Vietnam's development.
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| Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán witnessed the signing of a cooperation document between the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade during his official visit to Hungary in January 2024. (Source: VNA) |
Could you please share the highlights of Vietnam-Hungary relations over the past 75 years?
The diplomatic relationship between Vietnam and Hungary has been built on a strong foundation of mutual respect, cooperation, and shared history. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties on February 3, 1950, Hungary has consistently supported Vietnam in various domains. During Vietnam’s struggle for independence and national reunification, Hungary extended valuable political and material support, fostering a deep sense of solidarity between our peoples.
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| Hungarian Ambassador to Vietnam Baloghdi Tibor. (Photo: CT) |
Over the decades, our cooperation has expanded significantly. Hungary has played an important role in training Vietnamese professionals, especially in engineering, medicine, and natural sciences, with thousands of Vietnamese students having studied in Hungary under government scholarships. This investment in human resources has greatly contributed to Vietnam’s socio-economic development while strengthening people-to-people ties.
In recent years, high-level visits and strategic agreements have marked our partnership. The establishment of the Comprehensive Partnership in 2018 was a milestone, demonstrating the commitment of both nations to deepening cooperation across multiple fields, from trade and investment to education, healthcare, and science and technology. The bilateral trade volume has increased steadily, with Hungary becoming one of Vietnam’s key partners in Central Europe.
The friendship between the two peoples has been an important foundation of bilateral relations over the past 75 years. What should the two countries do to promote people-to-people relations in the future?
The strong historical connection between our peoples remains a cornerstone of bilateral relations. To further enhance this bond, we should focus on increasing cultural and educational exchanges. Hungary remains committed to offering scholarships to Vietnamese students under the Stipendium Hungaricum program, which has already benefited many young talents from Vietnam.
Beyond education, fostering tourism and cultural programs will be instrumental. Encouraging direct exchanges between artists, writers, and academics can enhance mutual understanding. Additionally, the Embassy is working hard every year to organize cultural weeks, film screenings, and exhibitions showcasing Hungarian and Vietnamese heritage in order to bridge our cultures more effectively.
Another crucial aspect is strengthening the Vietnamese community in Hungary and the Hungarian community in Vietnam. These communities are able and willing to contribute to stronger interpersonal and business relations. Facilitating exchange programs, networking events, and investment opportunities for these communities will further enhance bilateral ties.
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| Ambassador Baloghdi Tibor worked with Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hoang Long on January 7. (Photo: CT) |
What are the new efforts of our relations after Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's visit to Hungary last year? What are your assessments of the current pace of cooperation between the two countries, especially in economic fields?
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s visit to Hungary last January was a significant moment in our relations, reaffirming the commitment to deepening economic, political, and cultural cooperation. Several important agreements were signed.
Economically, our trade volume has seen continuous growth. Hungary views Vietnam as a crucial partner in Southeast Asia, while Vietnam considers Hungary a key bridge to the European market. Hungarian businesses have been increasingly interested in investing in Vietnam, particularly in water management, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals. Likewise, Vietnamese enterprises are exploring opportunities in Hungary.
Furthermore, both sides are committed to expanding cooperation under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which presents significant opportunities for businesses from both countries. With favorable trade policies, we expect to see even greater investment flows and economic collaboration in the coming years.
Vietnam is entering a new era (Vietnam’s Rise). What are your expectations for Vietnam's breakthrough in strengths and international position in the coming time?
Vietnam’s remarkable socio-economic development and international integration over the past few decades have positioned it as an emerging global player. With a dynamic economy, a young and skilled workforce, and a strategic geographic location, Vietnam is poised to become an even more significant hub for trade, investment, and innovation.
I see Vietnam excelling in several key areas. Firstly, as a manufacturing powerhouse, Vietnam will continue to attract high-quality foreign investments, particularly in high-tech industries and digital transformation. The country’s commitment to sustainability and green energy also presents vast opportunities for cooperation with Hungary and other international partners in renewable energy and smart city development.
Secondly, Vietnam’s proactive foreign policy and growing influence in multilateral organizations, such as ASEAN and the United Nations, will further elevate its international standing. By actively participating in global initiatives, Vietnam is showcasing itself as a responsible and capable partner in addressing global challenges, from climate change to digital transformation.
Lastly, Vietnam’s innovation-driven approach will be crucial for its future success. With increasing investments in education, science, and technology, Vietnam is well-positioned to become a regional leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. This aligns with Hungary’s vision of fostering strong collaborations in research and development, particularly in science and technology-driven industries.
Hungary remains committed to supporting Vietnam’s development journey and strengthening our bilateral ties in this new era. We believe that the next chapter of our relations will be even more fruitful, building on the strong foundation of the past 75 years while embracing the opportunities of the future.
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