Hanoi (VNA) –ไ Vietnamese Ambassador to Hungary Bui Le Thai had a meeting with Apostolic Nuncio to Hungary Michael W. Banach, who is also Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in the European country, on February 4 to discuss the relations between Vietnam and Hungary, as well as the Holy See.

Thai noted that Hungary holds a significant position and role in Central and Eastern Europe, and was the first country in the region that Vietnam upgraded to a comprehensive partnership in 2018. The Vietnam – Hungary relationship is thriving across all fields, with frequent high-level visits fostering deep understanding and political trust, the diplomat said, adding the two countries are coordinating in organising many activities to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations, with high-level visits scheduled. The relationship between Vietnam and the Holy See is quite unique, he said, stressing the Holy See's significant influence over the global religious community, including the Catholic in Vietnam with over 7 million followers. Thai highlighted the significant progress in the relations through meetings between high-ranking Vietnamese leaders and Pope Francis. In July 2023, Vietnam and the Holy See reached an agreement on the appointment of the Resident Papal Representative in Vietnam instead of the Non-Resident Special Envoy. This upgrade reflects the Vietnamese Party and State's consistent policy of respecting and ensuring freedom of belief and religion, creating favourable conditions for religious activities in Vietnam, including Catholicism, Thai said, noting it aligns with Vietnam’s foreign policy and holds important significance for both sides, paving the way for a further elevation of the bilateral relations at an appropriate time. The diplomat revealed that Vietnam’s leaders have invited Pope Francis to visit Vietnam at an appropriate time. Thai expressed his desire to receive support and cooperation from the diplomatic corps, while affirming his readiness to actively participate in activities within the framework of the diplomatic corps. For his part, Banach expressed his delight at fruitful developments in relations between Vietnam and the Holy See in recent times, hoping that the two sides will soon establish diplomatic relations, and that Pope Francis will visit Vietnam in the near future. Banach stressed that in his positions, he will work closely with the diplomat and the Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary in general to further strengthen relations between Vietnam and Hungary, as well as between Vietnam and the Holy See./.