Vietnam and Hungary are intensifying their bilateral cooperation during talks held in Hanoi. Both nations celebrated their 75-year diplomatic relationship and agreed on various measures to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, culture, and more. Hungary emphasized its admiration for Vietnam’s progress, while Vietnam sought continued support for its community in Hungary.
On March 19, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son engaged in discussions with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto in Hanoi. They expressed their commitment to enhancing multifaceted cooperation between Vietnam and Hungary, particularly as they commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Minister Son emphasized the significance of the Hungarian minister’s visit in fostering the bilateral partnership. He reiterated Vietnam’s dedication to strengthening cooperation with Hungary, its first comprehensive partner in Central and Eastern Europe.
The Vietnamese host acknowledged Hungary’s efforts to support the Vietnamese community, urging the government to create favorable conditions for their stability and contribution to local socio-economic development. Minister Szijjarto praised Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements, accentuating Hungary’s desire to bolster relations with this key Southeast Asian partner.
Both officials recognized the flourishing traditional friendship over the past 75 years, particularly in politics, trade, investment, culture, education, and health care. Hungary has emerged as a leading trading partner for Vietnam in Central and Eastern Europe, while Vietnam is identified as a promising market for Hungary in Asia.
Despite the challenges posed by the global economy, both countries report a consistent bilateral trade growth, averaging approximately one billion USD annually. They identified significant potential for expanding cooperation, agreeing to enhance high-level exchanges and mutual support in multilateral forums.
Both nations will work collaboratively to maximize the benefits of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) by promoting trade in agricultural and aquatic products and encouraging Hungarian investments in sectors aligned with Vietnam’s needs, such as pharmaceuticals and water management. They also committed to expediting the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).
Moreover, discussions included enhancing collaboration in various fields, including education, defense, security, and climate change. Both parties agreed to negotiate an agreement on the readmission of citizens to strengthen labor cooperation, and to convene the 10th session of the Vietnam-Hungary Joint Committee on Economic Cooperation in Hanoi.
On regional and international concerns, both sides highlighted the importance of resolving disputes peacefully, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law, particularly regarding issues in the East Sea and Ukraine.
The discussions between Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son and Minister Szijjarto Peter underscore the commitment of Vietnam and Hungary to strengthen their bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. With a shared goal of enhancing trade, investment, and cultural exchange, both nations are positioned to further develop their strategic partnership, especially in light of their significant historical relations and upcoming initiatives under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement.
Original Source: en.vietnamplus.vn
