State leader commemorates late President Ho Chi Minh in London

The delegation expressed gratitude to President Ho Chi Minh and reviewed his overseas journey for national salvation. Though his stay in the U.K. was not long, it helped form his political thought.

President Vo Van Thuong (third from left) at the plaque commemorating late President Ho Chi Minh at New Zealand House on Haymarket street in London

Vietnamese Ambassador to the U.K. Nguyen Hoang Long said President Ho Chi Minh’s stay in the U.K. laid a foundation for the friendship between the two countries. The historical relic site at the New Zealand House and some other places linked with him in London are important to helping British and international friends learn about the history and the struggle for national liberation of Vietnam and also promote the two countries’ friendship.

Long also described the late leader’s patriotism during the national salvation journey as a great example for young Vietnamese in the U.K. to follow.

President Vo Van Thuong lays a wreath at the plaque commemorating late President Ho Chi Minh at the New Zealand House on Haymarket street in London on May 5 morning

The 19-storey New Zealand House on Haymarket, located at the center of London, was built on the ground of Carlton Hotel, a luxury hotel operating from 1899 to 1940, where the late leader of Vietnam worked as a kitchenhand.

The facade of this building is attached with a blue plaque of the U.K. - Vietnam Friendship Association reading: “Ho Chi Minh (1890 - 1969), founder of modern Vietnam, worked in 1913 at the Calton Hotel which stood on this site.”

Many other places in London were also associated with President Ho Chi Minh during that time, including Drayton Court Hotel, Soho Square, and Marx Memorial Library.

Source: VNA