“Relations between Israel and Hungary are not built on a single moment or the tenure of any one government. They rest on a broad framework of shared interests and common priorities. We are delighted to be working with Hungary’s new government and are confident that the close cooperation between our two countries will continue. At the same time, this is not a relationship in its infancy. We are building on years of agreements, institutional partnerships and successful projects that already provide a firm foundation.”
Speaking at a reception in Budapest to mark the 78th anniversary of Israel’s independence, Ambassador Maya Kadosh stressed that “relations between Israel and Hungary have, by now, become one of Israel’s strongest and most stable partnerships in Europe.”
In her address, she underlined that the strength of bilateral ties stems not only from political dialogue between governments, but from “the extensive network of relationships that has developed over the years across the economy, institutions, universities, businesses and, of course, between people.”
The ambassador also emphasised that “truly durable international relationships cannot depend solely on election results or political cycles. They must be grounded in shared interests, sustained cooperation and a genuine understanding of one another.”
She pointed to concrete achievements, recalling that last October Budapest hosted a major Israeli–Hungarian business forum attended by more than 30 Israeli companies and over 100 Hungarian firms. “This was not a ceremonial occasion. It was practical, results-driven cooperation,” she said.
Tourism was cited as a standout example of the growing ties between the two countries. “In 2024, more than 215,000 Israelis visited Hungary, generating nearly 700,000 guest nights across the country,” she noted.
The ambassador also highlighted expanding cooperation in energy, cyber technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, education and professional exchange.
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Márton Hajdu, chairman of the foreign affairs committee, also addressed the event, stressing that “a strong and stable Hungarian–Israeli relationship is deeply in Hungary’s national interest.” In his remarks, he emphasised the importance of Hungary’s Jewish community, as well as the historical and cultural links between the two countries, which “form a genuine bridge between Hungary and Israel.”
Mr Hajdu further observed that “cooperation in technology, science, cybersecurity, energy, education, defence and business delivers tangible benefits for both Hungarians and Israelis alike.”
He added: “Israel and Hungary alike understand that identity, sovereignty and security are not abstract concepts, but lived realities. They require responsibility, firm alliances and reliable friends.”
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