Edited by Anna Popper
After more than three years of dedicated service in Budapest, Her Excellency Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Hungary, concluded her remarkable diplomatic mission. Recognizing her exceptional contributions to the development of Hungary-Vietnam ties, she was awarded the prestigious Commander’s Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit for Senior Civil Servants.
The decision to confer this high honour was based on a proposal by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, acknowledging Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo’s tireless efforts to deepen mutual understanding, foster high-level exchanges and promote cooperation in various sectors, including politics, economy, education and culture.
A Solemn Ceremony of Recognition
On 26 November 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary organised a formal ceremony to present the award. The event was presided over by State Secretary Ms Boglárka Illés and attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Director General for Regional Affairs, senior officials from the Ministry, Mr. László Botz, Chairman of the Hungary-Vietnam Friendship Association, Mr. Vũ Quý Dương, President of the Vietnamese Association in Hungary, and staff of the Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary.
State Secretary Boglárka Illés presented the Commander’s Cross to Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo on behalf of the President of Hungary. She praised the Ambassador as an experienced, dedicated and highly respected diplomat who played a pivotal role in elevating the Vietnam-Hungary partnership to new heights.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
In her remarks, State Secretary Illés emphasized the Ambassador’s significant contributions to fostering political dialogues and cooperation in areas such as legislation, judicial collaboration, economy, culture, education and local partnerships.
She highlighted the Ambassador’s steadfast support for the Hungary-Vietnam Friendship Association and the Vietnamese community in Hungary, which strengthened bilateral ties.
Under the leadership of Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo, the Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary facilitated over thirty high-level Vietnamese delegations, including deputy ministerial-level and above. Key achievements included the high-profile visit of Vietnam’s National Assembly Chairman in June 2022.
Another highlight was the visit of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in January 2024, who was warmly received by his Hungarian counterpart in Budapest.
Most recently, the Embassy successfully supported the signing of two educational cooperation agreements during the visit of Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Education and Training, Phạm Ngọc Thưởng, in November 2024.
Cultural Diplomacy and Community Engagement
Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo also had a lasting impact on cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations. She built strong relationships with Hungary’s National Assembly, ministries and local authorities, particularly in education and cultural promotion. Her notable efforts included honouring Vietnamese and Hungarian literary translators in August 2023 and supporting Vietnamese students in Hungary through government scholarship programs.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade praised her commitment to humanitarian initiatives and cultural diplomacy that helped Hungarian audiences better understand Vietnam’s rich history and vibrant culture. Her work with the Vietnamese Women’s Association in Hungary further demonstrated her dedication to fostering community ties and organising meaningful events.
A Farewell and a Pledge
Following the State Secretary’s remarks, Mr. Dániel Lőrincz, Director General of the Fastest Growing Economies of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, expressed his gratitude for the Ambassador’s professionalism and commitment. He emphasized her pivotal role in strengthening trust and laying a solid foundation for future cooperation between Hungary and Vietnam.
In her acceptance speech, Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Hungarian government and people for their support during her tenure. She pledged to continue contributing to the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between Vietnam and Hungary in the years ahead.
High-Level Farewell Meetings
On the same day, State Secretary Illés hosted a farewell meeting for the Ambassador. Earlier, President Tamás Sulyok, National Assembly Speaker László Kövér, and the two Vice Presidents of the National Assembly also held farewell meetings with Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo, underscoring the high regard in which she is held by Hungary’s leadership.
The Commander’s Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit symbolizes Hungary’s deep appreciation for Ambassador Nguyễn Thị Bích Thảo’s exceptional contributions to fostering political trust and expanding bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Esteemed Excellency, on behalf of the Diplomatic Press Agency we extend our best wishes for Your continued success in Your diplomatic career, future endeavours and upcoming postings.
Source: Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Hungary, and Dr. Chu Minh Thao
Photos by the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Hungary
