INTERVIEW – Diplomatic insights: Pakistan’s Ambassador discusses trade, education, and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Hungary
Daily News Hungary had the honour of conducting a rich and lengthy interview with Pakistan’s Ambassador to Hungary, His Excellency Asif Hussain Memon. In this candid conversation, the Ambassador shared insights into Pakistan’s vibrant culture, its growing ties with Hungary, and his views on global geopolitical issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Palestinian-Israeli situation.
Daily News Hungary: Before my interview, I asked people what they knew about Pakistan. They were generally aware of its location, but they didn’t know much more about it, even though it is one of the most populous countries in the world (6th), and it even has one of the 10 strongest militaries in the world. If you were to present 5 things that stand out about your country, what would they be?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan is a country with a rich heritage and a great future. It is cradle of one of the most ancient civilizations in the world, the Indus Valley civilization. It is the 6th most populous country in the world having 50 percent of its population below the age of 30. It has incredible people known for their warmth and hospitality, a diverse and breathtaking landscape with one of the highest mountains in the world and also deserts in the south. I must also mention the diversity in cuisine. It is hard to shortlist five things but I would say the people, history, culture, food and the geography make it stand out.
DNH: Today’s geopolitical situation is not exactly simple. How does Pakistan relate to Russia’s war against Ukraine?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan maintains excellent bilateral relations with both Russia and Ukraine. Pakistan and Russia relations are strengthened by high level visits, shared perspective and commonality of views. In case of Ukraine, it is important to note that Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba visited Pakistan in July 2023. It was the first-ever visit by a Ukrainian Minister to Pakistan country since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1993. Pakistan has always advocated for dialogue and diplomacy. We believe that the conflict can only be resolved through dialogue between the two parties. We are always ready to play part in promoting peace and stability.
DNH: Another important conflict that is much closer to you is the Israeli-Palestinian war?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan has consistently advocated for a two-state solution as the key to enduring peace in the Middle East, with a just, comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian question. We believe that a viable, sovereign and contiguous State of Palestine should be established on the basis of pre-1967 borders, with Al Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. The current situation is Gaza is a catastrophe. Pakistan has repeatedly called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unlimited provision of humanitarian assistance and de-escalation of the tension in the region.
DNH: It is not so obvious to most that Pakistan has a nuclear arsenal. Why was this necessary, and what responsibility is there for countries with nuclear weapons?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan believes that any initiative on nuclear disarmament must take into account the vital security considerations of each and every State. Pakistan is committed to the goal of a nuclear weapons free world through the conclusion of a universal, verifiable and non-discriminatory, comprehensive convention on nuclear weapons. This objective can only be achieved as a cooperative and universally agreed undertaking, through a consensus-based process involving all the relevant stakeholders.
DNH: I am also sure that the majority of Hungarians do not know that one of our largest companies, MOL, has a major role in Pakistan’s oil and gas industry?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan is rich in oil and gas sector and hence Hungarian company MOL has capitalized on the potential. MOL is a story of success for Hungarian companies. MOL has an investment of $500 million with $2.8 billion with its subsidiaries. MOL has remained an important feature in the bilateral relationship. MOL is celebrating 25 years of its business this year. In view of the potential in the hydrocarbon sector, I think it is high time that MOL expands its operations in Pakistan.
DNH: Are there any other Hungarian companies and products that could prevail in your country?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: As our bilateral trade is increasing with a good pace, there is a great scope for Hungarian exporters to do business in Pakistan. Pakistan is a market of more than 220 million people, hence there is a lot of potential for Hungarian companies to invest in Pakistan. Another Hungarian company Vitafort is also doing great business in Pakistan in the field of animal feed, fisheries and aqua culture. Traditionally, Hungarian exports to Pakistan involve machinery, pharmaceutical products, medical apparatus and optical instruments. However, there is a great scope in investing in agriculture, livestock, fisheries.
H.E. Ambassador Memon: During the last 5 years the exports of Pakistan to Hungary have increased at an annualized rate of 15%, from $21.6 million in 2017 to $45 million in 2023.This shows increased interest of Pakistani investors and businessmen in the Hungarian market. The main exports included textile products, cotton, sports equipment and broadcasting equipment. Among the famous Pakistani products available in Hungary are world famous Pakistani mangoes, basmati rice, spices and sports goods. Pakistan is known for manufacturing world class footballs which are used in all major tournaments in the world including the World Cups and EUFA.
DNH: How do you assess the current relationship between the Hungarian and Pakistani governments?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Due to the special focus of the leadership of both countries, the current state of relationship between the both countries is excellent. I must say that Hungary’s “Look East” Policy and the visit of H.E Peter Szijjártó to Islamabad in April 2021 followed by first ever visit of our Foreign Minister to Budapest in 2023, the relationship has witnessed a monumental growth. Next year, we are also celebrating 60 years of establishment of diplomatic relations. The relationship is multifaceted and has grown in all spheres including political, trade and economic, cultural and people to people ties.
DNH: Stipendium Hungaricum can be a strong link between the two countries in the long run. How many students have come to Hungarian universities in recent years? And what are the experiences of students who have completed the program?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: One of a very important feature in our relationship has been the “Stipendium Hungaricum” scholarship under which many Pakistani students come and study in high quality Hungarian universities. During the visit of our Foreign Minister to Hungary in February 2023, the Hungarian Government increased the quota for Pakistani students. There has been a very keen interest among the Pakistani students to study in Hungary. These students not only prove to be a bridge between our both countries but also play a significant role in promoting the image of Hungary.
DNH: There is a growing labour shortage in Hungary, which is increasingly being addressed by companies using Asian workers. Are Pakistanis also recruiting workers for Hungary? What is your experience?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Hungary’s economy is growing at an excellent pace due to which there is potential for skilled workers from Pakistan. The number of Pakistani workers in Hungary is not much but we are witnessing increased interest by Hungarian companies in hiring skilled Pakistani workers. I often visit some Hungarian companies who have employed a number of Pakistani workers and I get excellent feedback. Pakistan has a huge potential in offering skilled, semi-skilled workers to countries facing labour shortage.
DNH: Tourism is an important “product” for Hungary. Apart from Budapest, what Hungarian attractions can you recommend to Pakistanis? Why should they come to Hungary?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Hungary is renowned for its tourism. Budapest is a historical city with rich culture and great architecture. In Budapest, Buda castle, thermal baths, Heroes square, Fisherman Bastion and the majestic Hungarian parliament are jewel of the city. Outside Budapest, Balaton is known for its beauty and landscape. Apart from these amazing places, the friendly people, relaxed atmosphere and excellent connectivity makes Hungary a must-see country in bucket list.
DNH: Pakistan is not really considered a tourist destination at the moment. Why should we, Hungarians go to Pakistan? What are the five must-see tourist attractions for Hungarians visiting Pakistan?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan has an amazing and diverse landscape. From the second highest mountain in the world, K-2 to a beautiful sea coast in Karachi and Gwadar and desert in Bahawalpur, it offers a lot for all types of tourism. Anyone who is planning to visit Pakistan, I must say that a visit to northern Pakistan is a must since the nature, beauty and mountains are unmatched. Every year, a large number of mountaineers and hikers visit northern Pakistan to climb highest mountains and enjoy breathtaking scenery. Karachi is the biggest city and an economic hub which offers a mega city lifestyle. For history lovers, Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa and other historical places would be a great option. Lahore is the cultural capital of Pakistan, having architecture from the Mughal era and a variety of cuisines. There are amazing sightseeing places like Swat, Malam Jabba for skiing, not to forget the delicious cuisines.
DNH: Pakistani and Hungarian cuisine differ in many ways, but I am confident that there are Hungarian favourites. If you could choose any, what is the best Hungarian starter-course-dessert trio?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: There are several amazing Hungarian cuisines ranging from street food to high end restaurants with a lot of variety. Goulash soup is similar to Pakistani dish and very unique in taste. Similarly, Langos is a very popular. Then there is a large variety of light snacks which are very tasty. My favourite will be combination of Halaszle soup, and Dobos torte.
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