On 26 January 2026, Saigon Technology University (STU) and the Hungarian Water Partnership (HWP) formalized their cooperation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a new strategic framework for collaboration in water technology, education, research, and applications related to the food industry.
The signing ceremony was held with the support and presence of the Consulate General of Hungary in Vietnam, underscoring the institutional importance of the partnership.
Strengthening Hungary–Vietnam cooperation in water innovation
The agreement reflects the Hungarian Water Partnership’s long-standing commitment to international cooperation and knowledge exchange, particularly in rapidly developing markets where sustainable water management is a strategic priority. Vietnam has become a key partner country for HWP, offering strong potential for cooperation in drinking water treatment, industrial and wastewater management, groundwater protection, and water quality assurance across food production chains.
Under the MOU, the two parties agreed to build a long-term, market-oriented partnership based on mutual benefit. The cooperation will support the introduction and deployment of advanced Hungarian water technologies in Vietnam, while also fostering joint research, pilot projects, and technology demonstration initiatives—especially those serving the food and beverage industry.
STU will act as an important local interface, facilitating connections between HWP member companies and Vietnamese enterprises, public authorities, and professional organizations. Joint participation in conferences, industry forums, exhibitions, and innovation platforms will further strengthen the visibility and practical impact of Hungarian solutions in the Vietnamese market.
High-level participation and academic cooperation
The Hungarian delegation at the ceremony was led by Robert Forintos, Co-Chairman of the Hungarian Water Partnership, together with Mr. Gábor Lehocz, Consul General of Hungary in Vietnam, and Tímea Kricskovics, Project Coordinator of HWP in Vietnam and Ms. Hoàng Thị Hát, Director of Pureco Tradeland Vietnam Co., Ltd.
Representing Saigon Technology University were Dr. Ngô Thị Thu Thủy, Chairwoman of the University Council; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hoàng Kim Anh, Vice President; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Ngọc Hòa, Dean of the Faculty of Food Technology; Dr. Hoàng Trung Tiến, Head of the Office of Science Management and Postgraduate Affairs; MSc. Ngô Thanh Phi, Deputy Head of the Office of Science Management and Postgraduate Affairs, together with representatives of faculties and departments of the University, highlighting the University’s strong institutional commitment to the partnership.
Beyond technology cooperation, the MOU also opens the door to expanded academic collaboration, including joint training programs, faculty and student exchanges, applied research projects, and innovation-driven education initiatives. These activities are expected to contribute to capacity building and human resource development in Vietnam, while strengthening professional and cultural ties between the two countries.
Part of a broader Hungarian Water Partnership mission to Vietnam
The signing of the MOU took place within the framework of a broader official mission to Vietnam by the Hungarian Water Partnership. As part of this mission, Robert Forintos, Managing Director of the Tradeland Group and Co-Chairman of HWP, and Tímea Kricskovics, Coordinator of Tradeland’s Vietnam projects, are undertook a ten-day visit to the country.
During the mission, the delegation held meetings with governmental, educational, and business partners to further define strategic cooperation opportunities and prepare the Hungarian Water Partnership’s participation in Vietnam Water Week 2026, to be held in Hanoi.
The visit highlights HWP’s long-term commitment to building a strong, trusted presence in Vietnam and to supporting sustainable water solutions through partnership, innovation, and dialogue. Further updates on the mission and ongoing negotiations will be shared in the coming period.
The Hungarian Water Partnership, on behalf of our Member and Partner organisations, thanks Robert Forintos and Tímea Kricskovics for a successful and productive visit.
