Hanoi (VNA) – Deputy Speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly Istvan Jakab has extended congratulations to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on its remarkable achievements over nearly six decades, expressing confidence that the bloc will co൲ntinue to play a central and increasingly influential role in promoting peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.

Jakab conveyed the message in his speech at a ceremony marking the 58th founding anniversary of ASEAN, co-hosted by the Vietnamese Embassy and the embassies of other ASEAN member states in Budapest, including Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. The event drew nearly 200 guests, including representatives from Hungary’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, government officials, academics, business leaders, members of the ASEAN communities in the Eastern European nation, and diplomats and staff from ASEAN embassies. He underscored the importance of strengthening the ASEAN – EU strategic partnership based on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared interests. He expressed his hope for further deepening Hungary’s ties with ASEAN countries and called for their support for Hungary’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). Speaking on behalf of ASEAN embassies in Hungary, Philippine Ambassador Maria Elena P. Algabre highlighted the significance of the bloc establishment in 1967 and its transformation into an influential regional institution that fosters peace, prosperity, and cooperation among member states and with external partners. She also noted the growing ASEAN – Hungary relationship, reflected in the presence of six ASEAN members' embassies in the country as well as the expanding cooperation in trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. Expressing the hope that Hungary will soon join the TAC, Algabre said that as ASEAN Chair in 2026, the Philippines will prioritise advancing peace and security, enhancing maritime cooperation, and combating climate change. Vietnamese Ambassador to Hungary Bui Le Thai said the 58th founding anniversary of ASEAN is an excellent opportunity for its members' diplomatic missions in Hungary to strengthen ties, bolster mutual understanding, and jointly promote the spirit of solidarity and cooperation, thereby building the image of a cohesive, dynamic, and culturally rich ASEAN Community. Held under the theme “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”, the ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances and an ASEAN food space showcasing signature dishes from each member country. In addition, the ASEAN Bazaar also took place, raising a significant sum to support charitable activities led by the Diplomatic Spouses of Budapest./.