Hanoi (VNA) - The Embassy of Vietnam in Hungary hosted a celebration in Budapest to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries (February 3, 1950 – 2025) and the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification of Vietnam (April 30, 1975 – 2025).

The event honoured the proud shared history between the two nations, reaffirming the strong and evolving traditional friendship. It also stirred patriotic pride within the Vietnamese community in the European country, recalling Vietnam's heroic, arduous but glorious struggle culminating in the 1975 Spring Victory that ushered in an era of independence, unity, and global integration.

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Hungary Bui Le Thai emphasised that the 75-year diplomatic relationship between the two countries has been one of pride, nurtured through solidarity, mutual trust, and sustainable cooperation.

The ambassador expressed deep gratitude for the invaluable support the Government and people of Hungary had extended to Vietnam during the years of national liberation and reunification, as well as during the country's ongoing process of renewal and development.

He affirmed that despite geographical distance and global changes, the Party, Government, and people of Vietnam attach great importance to and are committed to further strengthening the traditional friendship and comprehensive partnership with Hungary.

Looking back on five decades since national reunification, Thai stated that the 1975 victory was not only a monumental achievement for Vietnam but also a shining symbol of revolutionary heroism, the will for independence and self-reliance, and the strength of national unity and international solidarity – embodying the profound truth that nothing is more precious than independence and freedom.

He added that today’s Vietnam is stepping confidently into a new era – an era of the nation's rise grounded in confidence, self-reliance, resilience, and patriotic pride.

The ambassador also underscored that with a 75-year foundation of friendship and cooperation, strong political trust, and shared values of peace, progress, and prosperity, the two countries are well-positioned to write a new chapter in their bilateral relations.

Representing the Hungarian Government and Parliament, First Deputy Speaker of Hungary's National Assembly Márta Mátrai conveyed congratulations from Speaker László Kövér and the National Assembly to the Vietnamese people.

She praised Vietnam’s post-1975 achievements and expressed pride in Hungary’s role in supporting Vietnam’s national liberation, notably through its participation in the International Commission of Control and Supervision (ICCS) between 1973 and 1975.

Deputy Speaker Mátrai highly valued the long-standing friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two nations, particularly parliamentary collaboration – a pillar of the bilateral relationship – through high-level visits, committee exchanges, and legislative dialogues. She also informed that Speaker László Kövér had accepted an invitation and is scheduled to visit Vietnam this October.

Recognising the positive role of the Vietnamese community in Hungary’s development and prosperity, Mátrai reaffirmed the commitment of both the Hungarian Government and National Assembly to creating favourable conditions for them to successfully integrate into society.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Thai presented a special commemorative publication jointly produced by the Embassy and Eurasia magazine to distinguished guests in celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

The event also featured rich cultural experiences. More than 500 guests enjoyed vibrant artistic performances, traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and exhibitions and films showcasing the 75-year journey of Vietnam–Hungary friendship and 50 years of Vietnam’s post-war development.

Held at the iconic Pesti Vigadó on the picturesque banks of the Danube, the celebration left a profound impression on all attendees – further energising efforts by both countries to continue writing new chapters in their shared history of friendship and cooperation./.