Hanoi (VNA) – A solemn flower-laying ceremony at President Ho Chi Minh's monument and a symposium on his ideology on peace, independence, freedom and happiness have taken place in Zalaegerszeg city, Hungary, to celebrate his 135th birt♔h anniv♕ersary (May 19, 1890–2025).

The events, held by the Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary in collaboration with the city administration, were attended by Zalaegerszeg officials, representatives from Vietnamese associations, leaders of the Hungary – Vietnam Friendship Association, and numerous Hungarian friends. The monument in Zalaegerszeg, the only full-body outdoor statue of the late Vietnamese leader in Central and Eastern Europe, was inaugurated on April 30, 1976, exactly one year after Vietnam’s reunification. Ambassador Bui Le Thai expressed his gratitude for the city's care for the monument throughout nearly five decades, stating this site has stood as a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between the two countries as well as a testament to the Hungarian people’s respect for President Ho Chi Minh and the noble values he embodied. Following the ceremony, the ambassador and Zalaegerszeg Mayor Zoltan Balaicz co-chaired the symposium, during which Thai recounted President Ho Chi Minh’s journey to find a path to national salvation, affirming that it was undertaken not only for Vietnam’s independence but also for humanity’s common values – peace, independence, freedom, and happiness. The diplomat stressed that the President’s noble ideals have inspired many nations worldwide, including Hungary, a country that experienced historical upheavals in its quest for freedom and independence. Balaicz, for his part, said the symposium helped the Hungarian people, especially younger generations, gain deeper insights into President Ho Chi Minh – a national liberation hero, a great global thinker, and a great man of culture of Vietnam. Participants exchanged notes on the relevance of the leader's ideals in today's turbulent world, marked by ongoing conflicts and inequality, while highlighting the visionary nature of his ideology, which remains remarkably resonant and forward-looking. The event was followed by musical performances featuring songs in both Vietnamese and Hungarian that honoured President Ho Chi Minh. Video clips and a photo exhibition commemorating 75 years of Vietnam – Hungary relations and showcasing Vietnam's land and people attracted widespread attention. They brought history to life with historic milestones in the bilateral ties, from Hungary’s educational support for Vietnamese students to powerful moments of solidarity, high-level visits, and cooperation projects across various areas. The commemoration concluded with a Vietnam – Hungary culinary festival where guests enjoyed traditional Vietnamese dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere./.