Exclusive interview: Ambassador Bùi Lê Thái on why Vietnam matters more than ever to Hungary, trade, travel and ties

As Hungary and Vietnam mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, cooperation between the two countries is entering what the Vietnamese ambassador describes as a “new and increasingly pragmatic phase”, with expanding trade, growing educational exchanges and fresh opportunities in tourism and investment. In an interview with Daily News Hungary, His Excellency Bùi Lê Thái reflected on the deep historical ties between the two nations, highlighted more than USD 1 billion in bilateral trade, and pointed to visa-free travel and closer economic partnerships as key pillars of an evolving relationship that could soon be upgraded to a strategic level.

Daily News Hungary: Your Excellency, how do you look back on your arrival in Hungary? What were your first impressions of the country and the Hungarian people – and what has surprised you the most since then?

Bùi Lê Thái: It has been already one year since my arrival in Hungary, which marks the beginning of a meaningful professional and personal journey. From the very first days, I experienced a warm, respectful and well-organised reception from Hungarian institutions and partners.

My first impressions of Hungary were shaped by its rich history, strong sense of national identity and deep respect for cultural heritage. The Hungarian people impressed me with their sincerity, intellectual curiosity and openness toward other cultures. I found them to be principled, hardworking and proud of their national achievements, while at the same time maintaining a genuine interest in international cooperation.

What has surprised me most since then is the depth of Hungary’s historical connection with Viet Nam. Despite the geographical distance, many Hungarians retain vivid memories of bilateral cooperation and demonstrate a sincere interest in Viet Nam’s development today. This human dimension of our relations has been both encouraging and inspiring for more than 75 years.

Daily News Hungary: This year we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Hungary and Viet Nam. Which milestones are you most proud of?

Bùi Lê Thái: The establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950 laid the foundation for a friendship rooted in solidarity, trust and mutual respect. Hungary was among the early supporters of Viet Nam during critical periods, including post-war reconstruction and human resource development.

One of the most enduring milestones is cooperation in education and training. For decades, Hungary has welcomed Vietnamese students and professionals, many of whom later became leading experts, academics and public servants in Vietnam. They continue to serve as a living bridge between our two nations.

I am also proud of the consistent political dialogue and cooperation at multilateral forums. Despite changes in the international environment, Viet Nam and Hungary have maintained mutual understanding and respect for each other’s development paths and core interests.

Daily News Hungary: What joint programmes and events have been organised for the 75th anniversary?

Bùi Lê Thái: The 75th anniversary has been marked by a wide range of commemorative activities in both countries. These include high-level exchanges, diplomatic events, business forums designed to reflect both the historical depth and the future orientation of bilateral relations.

Cultural programmes have played a particularly important role. Photos exhibitions, cultural days have helped bring the history and contemporary life of Viet Nam closer to the Hungarian public, while also highlighting shared values and mutual respect.

In the economic sphere, joint business events and trade promotion activities have been organised to encourage new partnerships. These initiatives aim not only to celebrate past achievements, but also to create concrete opportunities for future cooperation.

Daily News Hungary: What does the Ho Chi Minh monument in Zalaegerszeg mean to you, and are commemorations planned?

Bùi Lê Thái: The Ho Chi Minh monument in Zalaegerszeg is a unique and deeply meaningful symbol of Hungarian – Vietnamese friendship. For Viet Nam, it represents a gesture of historical solidarity and sincere respect shown by the Hungarian people toward our national leader and our struggle for independence.

On a personal level, the monument evokes pride and gratitude. It stands as a reminder that the values of peace, independence and international solidarity transcend borders and generations, and that these values continue to shape our bilateral relationship today.

In view of the 50th anniversary of its inauguration in 2026, the Embassy is actively discussing with Hungarian partners the organisation of commemorative events. These may include official ceremonies, cultural programmes and the seminar “Ho Chi Minh’s ideology of international solidarity”.

Daily News Hungary: How would you describe the current state of intergovernmental relations?

Bùi Lê Thái: Intergovernmental relations between Viet Nam and Hungary are stable, friendly and increasingly pragmatic. Political trust remains strong, supported by high-level delegation exchanges, regular consultations and a shared commitment to constructive dialogue.

Both countries attach importance to multilateralism, respect for international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes. These shared principles form a solid basis for cooperation in international and regional forums.

Strategically, our approaches are particularly close in education, development cooperation, water management, healthcare and people-to-people exchanges. These areas reflect Hungary’s strengths and Viet Nam’s development priorities.

Hungary was the first country in Central and Eastern Europe with which Viet Nam established a Comprehensive Partnership in 2018. Since then, bilateral relations have developed strongly across all fields. Two-way trade turnover has surpassed 1 billion USD. I firmly believe that the conditions are now ripe for the two countries to upgrade their relationship to a Strategic Partnership in the near future.

Daily News Hungary: In which economic sectors do you see the greatest cooperation potential?

Bùi Lê Thái: Viet Nam and Hungary possess complementary economic structures, creating significant opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. In 2025, the two-way trade turnover reached more than 1 billion USD. Manufacturing, agriculture and food processing remain traditional areas with strong potential.

Emerging sectors such as renewable energy, digital transformation, smart infrastructure and water management are gaining increasing importance. Hungary’s advanced technologies and Viet Nam’s fast-growing market create natural synergies.

In addition, cooperation in pharmaceuticals, healthcare and innovation-oriented industries can be further expanded, particularly through joint ventures, technology transfer and research collaboration.