Photo: vietnamnet.vn

Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long signed a decision to recognize 33 national treasures in the 13th phase of 2024. Among them, three cars used by President Ho Chi Minh between 1954 and 1969 were included in the list. These vehicles are now preserved at the Ho Chi Minh Presidential Palace Historical Site.

According to the official website of the historical site, the three recognized cars are: Peugeot 404, ZIS 115, and Pobeda.

Pobeda Car was one of the vehicles gifted to Vietnam by the Soviet government in 1955. In March 1957, the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs transferred the car to the Presidential Office, where it served President Ho Chi Minh until 1969.

In the 1960s, the Soviet government provided Vietnam with newer Volga models, which were more aesthetically appealing and had superior technical features compared to Pobeda. However, when the Presidential Office sought Ho Chi Minh's permission to replace his car, he declined, insisting that the better cars should be reserved for diplomats.

The Pobeda was known for its spacious interior, high clearance, and strong engine, making it ideal for long-distance travel. It was frequently used during Ho Chi Minh's visits to provinces far from Hanoi.

Peugeot 404 was a gift from overseas Vietnamese to President Ho Chi Minh in March 1964. It was primarily used during his later years, as his health began to decline.

ZIS 115 was a luxury armored vehicle gifted to President Ho Chi Minh by the Soviet Communist Party in 1954. This four-seater black sedan was built with reinforced steel and 8 cm thick bulletproof glass, weighing over 2 tons.

The ZIS 115 was a highly specialized vehicle, produced in limited quantities in the Soviet Union, primarily for heads of state. Since 1965, the car was kept on standby at all times to serve President Ho Chi Minh and members of the Politburo./.

Compiled by BTA