Vietnam leaves impressions at ManiFiesta 2025 in Belgium
Visitors were impressed by stories of Ho Chi Minh’s legacy, along with messages of solidarity, peace and social justice.
THE HANOI TIMES — At ManiFiesta 2025 in Ostend, Belgium, took place from September 13 to 14, Vietnam’s booth displaying T-shirts with the red flag and gold star and memorabilia of President Ho Chi Minh drew a steady flow of international visitors despite the rain.
Amid the lively crowds, Kubra Sertkaya recalled how reading a book about President Ho Chi Minh had left a lasting impression. She said she was deeply moved by the story of the Vietnamese revolutionaries and their sacrifices.
People visit Vietnam's booth at the ManiFiest 2025 in Ostend. Photo: VNA
“Last year, I read a book about him and was profoundly touched. Today, I am truly happy to see Vietnam’s booth in person and feel a closer connection with the country,” she said.
Meanwhile, French visitor Karel Peeters shared that his admiration for Vietnam began in childhood. “I believe President Ho Chi Minh had remarkably progressive ideas, a socialist ideal that was humanistic and thorough. That is why I have always respected and cared about your country,” he said emotionally.
Vietnam’s participation also drew praise from European political figures. European Parliament member Marc Botenga said that the presence of Vietnam carried great symbolic weight. “It is wonderful that Vietnam is part of ManiFiesta, recounting its history of struggle for independence and unity. In such a meaningful year of commemoration, Vietnam’s participation is a great honor for us."
For Bozzo Freddy, a Brussels resident who attends the festival every year, it always brings memorable experiences.
Organized by the Belgian Labor Party, the ManiFiesta 2025 promotes solidarity, social equality, cultural exchange and dialogue on global issues such as labor, the environment, social justice and peace.
A highlight of the Vietnamese booth was a digital exhibition on President Ho Chi Minh, curated by the Vietnamese Embassy in Belgium in collaboration with the Presidential Palace in Hanoi.
Visitors could scan a QR code on their smartphones to explore his life and legacy.
Beyond the exhibitions, ManiFiesta 2025 featured concerts, international debates, book fairs, film screenings, sports and family spaces, connecting the community in a spirit of solidarity.
