United States

Statement by Secretary Antony J. Blinken on Hungary’s National Day

US Secretary Antony J. Blinken (1)

Read the statement by US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken sent to us on Hungary’s 20 August National Day.

“On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Hungary as you celebrate Saint Stephen’s Day, commemorating more than a millennium of your nation’s rich history.

Twenty-five years ago, Hungary was admitted to the most successful defensive alliance in the history of the world. Hungary was welcomed into NATO because of its commitment to a democratic future. That commitment, like the deep bonds between our people, should be protected and form the bedrock of Hungary-United States relations.

On this day of celebration, it is my hope that we can work towards a closer relationship between the United States and Hungary, rooted in democratic values, shared security, and prosperity. That is what the deep friendship between our peoples, and the rich history between our nations, deserves.”

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VIDEO: Hungarian shadow theatre in America’s Got Talent Quarterfinals

Attraction Junior America's Got Talent
“America’s Got Talent” featured Hungarian talent too, US Embassy Budapest wrote.
Congratulations to the young performers of the Hungarian shadow theatre, Attraction Juniors, who recently showed their creativity and skill at the legendary American talent show. They performed live but did not earn enough votes for the Semifinals. Still, they definitely stole the hearts of the famous jury, the audience – and us“, the embassy said.
You can meet Attraction Juniors on 19 October in the Budapest Arena. Details HERE.
Here is their last performance:
Read also:
  • Hungarian shadow theatre group astonished America’s Got Talent – details and videos in THIS article

Can A US Citizen Move To Hungary?

basilica hungary budapest

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Thinking about moving to Hungary from the U.S.? You’re not alone. In 2023, nearly 10,000 Americans moved abroad, with many eyeing countries like Hungary for their unique blend of history and modern living. Hungary, located in the heart of Europe, offers a rich culture and a relatively low cost of living compared to Western Europe.

But before you pack your bags, you need to know the basics. Can you make the move? What are the requirements? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about relocating to Hungary. From visa options to residency permits, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step. 

Ready to find out if Hungary is your next home? Let’s dive in!

Visa Requirements

Short-Term Stay:

Visa-Free Travel: You can stay in Hungary for up to 90 days within 180 days without needing a visa. This applies to tourism, business, or family visits.

Long-Term Stay:

Work Permit: You need a work permit if you plan to work in Hungary. You must have a job offer from a Hungarian employer to apply.

Student Permit: You should apply for a student permit if you are enrolled in a Hungarian educational institution. Proof of your enrollment is necessary.

Family Reunification Permit: You can apply for a family reunification permit if you want to join family members who are already living in Hungary. You will need to provide proof of your relationship and their residency status.

EU Blue Card: You can obtain an EU Blue Card if you have a high-level job offer. This card allows you to live and work in Hungary and other EU countries.

Investor Residence Permit: You may qualify for an investor residence permit if you invest a significant amount of money in Hungary. You will need to provide proof of your investment.

Required Documents

General Documents Needed for All Permits:

  • Valid Passport: You need to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
  • Application Form: You should complete the residence permit application form, which you can obtain from the Hungarian embassy or consulate.
  • Proof of Accommodation: You must provide documentation showing where you will live in Hungary, such as a rental agreement or proof of property ownership.
  • Proof of Financial Means: You need to show evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself, such as bank statements or employment contracts.
  • Health Insurance: You should submit proof of health insurance coverage for your stay in Hungary. This can be private insurance or coverage through an international provider.
  • Clean Criminal Record Certificate: You need to obtain a certificate from your home country or any country where you have lived in the past five years, indicating you have no criminal record.
  • Passport-Sized Photos: You must include recent photographs that meet the specified requirements.

Specific Documents for Each Type of Residence Permit:

Work Permit:

  • You need to provide a job offer letter from a Hungarian employer.
  • You should include details of the employer and the job position.

Student Permit:

  • You must provide enrollment confirmation from a recognized Hungarian educational institution.
  • You should also include proof of tuition payment.

Family Reunification Permit:

  • You need to provide proof of your relationship with the family member residing in Hungary.
  • You should include documentation of the family member’s residency status.

EU Blue Card:

  • You need to provide a high-level job offer letter.
  • You should include proof of your qualifications and work experience.

Investor Residence Permit:

  • You must provide documentation of the investment amount.
  • You should also include proof of how the investment is being used in Hungary.

Application Process

Steps to Apply for a Residence Permit:

  • Gather Documents: You need to collect all required documents specific to your type of residence permit.
  • Complete the Application Form: You should fill out the residence permit application form accurately.
  • Submit Your Application: You need to submit your completed application form along with all required documents to the Hungarian embassy or consulate.
  • Pay Fees: You may be required to pay an application fee, which varies depending on the type of permit.
  • Attend an Interview: You might need to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate as part of the application process.

Where to Apply:

  • Hungarian Embassy or Consulate: You should apply at the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country. They will process your application and provide further instructions.

Processing Times for an Application:

  • Processing Times: You need to allow several weeks to a few months for your application to be processed, depending on the type of permit and the volume of applications.

Tips for a Smooth Application:

  • Submit Complete Documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
  • Apply Early: You should apply well in advance of your planned move to accommodate any processing time.
  • Follow Instructions: Adhere closely to the guidelines provided by the embassy or consulate.
  • Keep Copies: You need to keep copies of all submitted documents and application forms for your records.

Living in Hungary

Overview of Living Conditions:

  • Quality of Life: You’ll find Hungary offers a high quality of life with a mix of modern amenities and historical charm. Cities like Budapest are vibrant with cultural events, dining options, and entertainment.
  • Safety: Hungary is generally safe with low crime rates. As with any country, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings.

Cost of Living and Accommodation Options:

  • Cost of Living: You’ll discover that Hungary has a lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. Expenses like food, transportation, and dining out are more affordable.
  • Accommodation Options: You can choose from various housing options, including apartments in the city center or more spacious homes in suburban areas. Rental prices vary depending on the location and size of the property.
    • Budapest: The capital city has higher rental costs, especially in central areas.
    • Smaller Cities and Rural Areas: You’ll find lower rental prices outside Budapest.

Healthcare and Insurance:

  • Healthcare System: You’ll have access to a well-developed healthcare system in Hungary. Public healthcare is available, but private healthcare options offer shorter wait times and additional services.
  • Health Insurance: You need to have health insurance coverage. You can use either Hungarian public health insurance or private health insurance. Ensure you have appropriate coverage before moving to Hungary.

Legal and Tax Considerations

Legal Requirements and Obligations:

  • Residence Registration: You need to register your residence with the local immigration office or municipal authority shortly after arriving in Hungary.
  • Visa and Permit Compliance: You must comply with the conditions of your residence permit or visa, including any reporting requirements or restrictions on employment or study.
  • Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with Hungarian laws and regulations, including those related to driving, property ownership, and business activities. Adhering to local laws will help you avoid legal issues. Additionally, while navigating your new life in Hungary, you might find learning a new language, such as Spanish, beneficial. A Spanish tutor from platforms like AmazingTalker can help you acquire new language skills that could be useful in your professional or personal life, especially if you plan to engage with Spanish-speaking communities or clients.

Tax Implications for U.S. Citizens Living in Hungary:

  • Hungarian Taxes: You are generally required to pay taxes on income earned while living in Hungary. This includes personal income tax and social security contributions.
  • U.S. Tax Obligations: As a U.S. citizen, you must continue to file U.S. tax returns and report your worldwide income to the IRS. The U.S. and Hungary have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation, which may help reduce your tax burden.
  • Tax Treaties and Credits: You may be eligible for tax credits or deductions on your U.S. tax return for taxes paid to Hungary. Consult a tax professional familiar with both U.S. and Hungarian tax laws to ensure compliance and optimize your tax situation.

Make sure to seek advice from legal and tax professionals and to stay compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

Conclusion

Moving to Hungary from the U.S. offers an exciting chance to explore a new culture and lifestyle. You can stay in Hungary for up to 90 days without a visa. For longer stays, you’ll need a residence permit like a work, student, family reunification, EU Blue Card, or investor permit. Gather all the necessary documents and apply through the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country. Expect a processing time of several weeks to months.

Living in Hungary provides a high quality of life with a lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. You’ll find a range of accommodation options, from city apartments to rural homes, and healthcare is accessible with the right insurance. As a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to follow local laws and manage tax obligations in both Hungary and the U.S. Research and prepare thoroughly to make your move smooth and enjoyable.

Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.

Great success in the US: Hungarian family-run distillery wins “Distillery of the Year” award

Árpád Classic Gin distillery of the year

After an amazing success at the annual London Spirits Competition, Árpád Pálinka Manufacture impressed the jury in the US. The three gold medals are testaments of outstanding taste, quality, excellent value for money, and stylish packaging.

Árpád Pálinka Manufacture secures the ‘Distillery of the Year’ award

Turizmus writes that at the USA Spirits Ratings international competition, the Hungarian family-run distillery Árpád Pálinka Manufacture stood out among entries from 40 countries, earning the prestigious “Distillery of the Year” award. Renowned for its outstanding quality, excellent value for money, and eye-catching packaging, Árpád Pálinka Manufacture’s three entries each secured gold medals. In addition to this, the distillery received the “Best Spirit by Package” and “Fruits Distillate of the Year” titles, solidifying its reputation on the global stage.

Árpád Classic Gin distillery of the year
Source: FB / Árpád Pálinka

As we wrote HERE before, this is not Árpád Gin’s first time at the rodeo. At the annual London Spirits Competition, the Árpád Classic Gin was praised for its innovative and fresh taste.

Árpád Paprika Gin
Source: FB / Árpád Pálinka

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Hungarian Olympic champion was rushed to the ER

Hungarian Olympic champion rushed to the ER

Hungarian Olympic champion Henrietta Ónodi, celebrated for her gold medal in the 1992 Barcelona Games, is battling serious health issues following a heart attack in March. After two months in rehabilitation, the former gymnast remains in critical condition, with her family rallying support to cover the overwhelming medical expenses.

Her family seeks help

VG reports that Henrietta Ónodi, a Hungarian Olympic champion and 38-time national titleholder, has faced severe health challenges after suffering a heart attack in March. Following her emergency surgery to address a near-complete blockage in her arteries, she spent the last two months in a long-term care rehabilitation hospital before a recent transfer to the emergency room. Her sister, Barbara Ónodi-Klausler, has been actively updating supporters and expressed gratitude for the nearly USD 36,000 raised through a GoFundMe campaign. The funds, donated by over 600 people, aim to help cover the exorbitant medical expenses, with a goal of reaching half a million dollars.

Hungarian Olympic champion suffers heart attack

Ónodi, who won gold in the vault at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, has been residing in the United States with her family since ending her competitive gymnastics career in 1997. The former gymnast’s health crisis began on 28 March, when she collapsed in a Florida grocery store and was rushed to the hospital. Despite her heart stopping several times during the journey, doctors were able to stabilise her condition through life-saving surgery. The Hungarian Olympic champion’s family continues to seek support to manage the high costs of her ongoing treatment. Her sister, Barbara, writes:

They started treatment at the hospital, which has made her feel somewhat better, but her pain is still significant. However, her appetite has improved and she is taking her medication properly.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com

Hungarian astronaut and his reservist prepare for space travel in the US

Hungarian astronauts HUNOR

Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu and his reservist, Gyula Cserényi, are now in Houston, Texas, alongside a US commander and an Indian astronaut, preparing for their voyage to the International Space Station, Orsolya Ferencz, the government commissioner for space research has said.

Hungarian astronaut in the US

Kapu’s replacement is also Hungarian, “a rare occurrence”, Ferencz told public news channel M1 on Monday.

The astronauts are now studying the technical equipment of the spaceship and the ISS, and the spacesuits are also being tailored specifically for them, she added.

“One of the most valuable features” of the project is that during the preparatory phase, Hungarian companies, universities and research institutions have the opportunity to develop experiments in areas such as physiology and radiation biology, she said.

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Orbán’s secretary is in Washington since Hungary wants a better relationship with the USA

Orbán's secretary dicsusses the future of US-Hungary relationship in Washington DC

Levente Magyar, a state secretary of the foreign ministry, has met the US deputy national security adviser for European affairs in Washington, DC, to discuss the future of bilateral ties.

The talks took place as part of a series aiming to review “all issues in the relations between Hungary and the US that could take us closer to an agreement or to stating that there’s a disagreement, because even that is a step forward from total radio silence”, Magyar said.

Magyar said that despite differences in opinion, both parties sought peace in Ukraine and the Middle East.

The talks this time focused on Ukraine, and the differences in opinion on the way to peace, Magyar said. The US sees the solution in military support for Ukraine “and funding the war”, and Hungary is working to keep the front as far from its borders as possible, he said. “We think that the way there is through a ceasefire and peace talks as soon as possible.”

They also touched on issues regarding Hungary’s ties with China, a country the US saw as a global competitor while Hungary was focusing on the economic advantages of Chinese investment and economic cooperation, he said. “The government listens to the US stance but will shape its foreign policy according to Hungarian interests.”

Hungary’s government sees nothing in its cooperation with China that would “tangibly” harm fundamental US interests in areas such as national security, Magyar said.

The aim of the talks was to ensure that the two countries come closer or “at least don’t drift further apart than they already have”, Magyar said. “The beginning and the end of Hungarian decisions are Hungarian interests, the security and economic welfare of Hungarians.”

Read also:

  • Hungarians would like to travel to US destinations from Budapest Airport, check them out HERE
  • Hungary lets Russians, Belarusians in the EU? Here’s FM Szijjártó’s answer

Featured image: illustration, Levente Magyar with David De Falco, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Europe and Eurasia in July

Centre for Fundamental Rights launches anti-Woke action community

Centre for Fundamental Rights

The Centre for Fundamental Rights will launch a project dubbed Wokebusters, a right-wing “rapid response unit” functioning as “an international communications hotline”, as well as an online and offline political action community, the organisation’s director said on Tuesday.

Organised right-wing forces

Miklós Szanthó told a press conference that anti-globalism must be raised to an international level “against liberal, communist woke phenomena”.

Right-wing forces around the world must be organised along strategic lines, and the Hungarian right wing “plays a key role in this”, he added.

International spokesman of Wokebusters, Gavin Wax, the head of the New York Young Republican Club, said the conservative ideologies of the world must be organised into an alliance, and Wokebusters was a counterattack against left-wing organisations. “You can also see how at the Olympics they’re going against our traditional values and norms. In the United States, we can achieve unity by lining up behind Donald Trump,” he added.

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Diplomatic rift erupts between Poland and Hungary over Orbán’s controversial speech

orbán poland diplomacy

A diplomatic row has flared up between Poland and Hungary following a speech by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the Tusványos Summer University event in Baile Tusnad, Romania.

orbán poland diplomacy
A diplomatic row has flared up between Poland and Hungary following a controversial speech of Orbán. Photo: Facebook/Viktor Orbán

In his address, Orbán criticized Poland’s geopolitical ambitions, their relationship with the United States, and their efforts to weaken Russia and outpace Germany economically. He labelled Polish policies as “hypocritical,” accusing Poland of conducting business with Russia while morally lecturing others.

Sharp Polish reaction to Orbán’s claims

Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski responded sharply, stating to Polish Business Insider that Orbán’s comments were an attack not only on Poland but also on the U.S., the European Union, and NATO. He denied any Polish dealings with Russia and criticised Orbán for positioning himself on the fringe of international society, both within the EU and NATO. Bartoszewski questioned Hungary’s continued membership in NATO, suggesting that Orbán should consider forming a new alliance with Putin and like-minded nations.

In response, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó defended Orbán, asserting that Poland was hurt by the truth. Szijjártó claimed that Hungary had long tolerated provocations and hypocrisy from the current Polish government in the interest of preserving the Hungarian-Polish brotherhood, but that patience had run out. He pointed out that Poland was also listed among the customers of a major Russian oil company, suggesting that Poland should not be hypocritical or accuse others while engaging in similar practices themselves.

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Orbán: Developments in the US ‘going favourably for us’

Donald Trump Viktor Orbán

Addressing the Bálványos Summer University in Baile Tusnad, Romania, on Saturday, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said the ongoing changes that would usher in a new global system presented an opportunity rather than a threat, because it meant Hungary had more room for manoeuvre than at any other time in the last 500 years.

Orbán said that 500 years ago Europe had been a winner, while Hungary had been a loser of the previous global paradigm shift, arguing that whereas a new economic space had opened up for the western part of the continent, the Muslim conquests had turned Hungary into a war zone for a long period, which afterwards had been forced to integrate into a German-Habsburg world.

He said developments in the United States “are going favourably for us”, adding, however, that he did not believe that the US could give Hungary “a better economic-political offer” than European Union membership could. “But if they can, we must take it into consideration,” he said.

Orbán said China had given Hungary “the maximum it can offer” and considered Hungary’s EU membership an asset, “unlike the Americans, who always imply that we should leave [the EU].” China’s offer, he said, was that “we should participate in each other’s modernisation”, even if the differences in size should be kept in mind.

The prime minister said the western part of the EU “won’t ever return to the nation-state form”, adding that the bloc’s eastern half could protect nation-states.

He said the EU had “lost the ongoing war” and would be abandoned by the US, adding that Brussels would not be able to finance the war in Ukraine or the country’s operations. This, he said, meant that “the European Union will have to pay the price of the war escapade, which will be high and will affect us unfavourably.”

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Orbán: Peace won’t be achieved by Ukraine or Russia; it has to come from outside

orbán tusványos festival

If it were up to Ukraine and Russia, there would never be peace, so peace can only come from the outside, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in his address at the Bálványos Summer University in Baile Tusnad, Romania on Saturday.

orbán tusványos festival
Photo: MTI/Veres Nándor

Both sides are taking brutal losses, yet they don’t want to reach a settlement, Orbán said, explaining that this was because both Ukraine and Russia believed that they could win and were fuelled by their own “perceived or real truth”.

Orbán said the Ukrainians saw the war as a Russian invasion that violated international law and their territorial sovereignty, and that they were defending themselves and fighting a war or independence.

The Russians, on the other hand, believed that there had been “serious NATO military developments in Ukraine”, that the country had been promised NATO membership, and they did not want to see either NATO troops or NATO weapons on the Russia-Ukraine border, he said. So, he said, Russia believed it had a right to self-defence and that the war had been provoked.

“So everyone has some kind of perceived or real truth, and neither side will give up the war,” the prime minister said.

“This is a straight path to escalation,” he said, stressing that there would be no peace if it were left up to the two warring sides. “Peace can only come from the outside,” Orbán said.

Orbán: ‘Time is on side of peace policy’

Addressing the Bálványos Summer University in Baile Tusnad, Romania, on Saturday, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said that “time is on the side of the peace policy”.

“Trump ante portas,” the prime minister said, referring to the upcoming US presidential election. He said that if Europe did not shift to a “peace policy” by the time of the November election, it would have to do so after Trump’s victory, “admitting defeat” and bearing the political consequences alone.

Orbán noted that the European Union’s founding treaty included the words “the Union’s aim is to promote peace”.

He said Brussels “doesn’t like it when we call what they do a pro-war policy, because they think they’re supporting the war in the interest of peace”.

He added that since the start of the Hungarian “peace mission”, the US secretary of state had spoken with Russia’s foreign minister, and the Swiss foreign minister had also held talks with him.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he noted, had called Donald Trump, the former US president and Republican presidential candidate, and the Ukrainian foreign minister had visited Beijing.

“Although slowly, but we’re moving away from a European pro-war policy in the direction of a pro-peace policy,” Orbán added.

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FM Szijjártó: Trump beacon of hope

trump szijjártó us hungary foreign minister

What remains most important amid fresh developments in the US presidential race is that Donald Trump is a beacon of hope for peace in the world, Péter Szijjártó, the foreign minister, said on Tuesday.

Trump a beacon of hope?

trump szijjártó us hungary foreign minister
Photo: Facebook/Szijjártó Péter

Szijjártó said that if the former president was re-elected, then there would be “a huge chance of bringing peace to the world, including Europe … and central Europe, too”.

According to a ministry statement, he said the war on the Russian-Ukrainian front was “more and more brutal”, and only an external actor may bring the warring parties to the negotiating table, making it clear to them that “no solution lies on the battlefield”.

“Only Donald Trump has such a chance,” he said, adding that the Republican presidential candidate would hopefully seize it at the earliest possible opportunity.

Meanwhile, Szijjártó said the fact that the EU’s foreign policy chief had changed the venue of the bloc’s informal foreign affairs council to Brussels from Budapest was “not of great importance”. “It didn’t matter to me then, and it doesn’t matter now,” he said.

He insisted that those in favour of holding the meeting in Budapest outweighed those against.

Szijjártó said that the recent meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council had been characterised by “unbelievable hysteria”, and he referred to “pro-war politicians venting their frustration” at Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s “peace mission”.

He noted that Slovakia “despite the pressure, stood by Hungary openly”. The minister said there had been “clear cooperation between two patriotic governments” who worked together “in a fraternal way” despite not being politically aligned “according to the old divides”, he added.

Szijjártó: IFRC expands Budapest office

The expanded Budapest office of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) was inaugurated on Tuesday, the minister of foreign affairs and trade said, adding that this was set to further bolster the organisation’s activities.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Szijjártó noted that the IFRC had chosen Budapest as the location for its global service centre eight years ago and this was the second expansion of the office since then.

Currently, there are 118 Hungarian and 110 foreign citizens working at the Budapest IFRC office, he said, adding that the expansion was set to increase staff to up to 280.

Szijjártó said it was important to ensure the most favourable operating conditions possible, which could help the organisation carry out its duties at the highest possible level. The government, he added, had assured the IFRC of its continued support, noting the tax exemptions for its staff members, which parliament will have to approve in the autumn.

Meanwhile, Szijjártó said mankind had entered “an era of dangers”, with armed conflicts going on in more than 30 places in the world.

Concerning the war in Ukraine, the minister said around 1,500 schools and kindergartens have welcomed Ukrainian refugee children. Refugees, he added, had equal access to health care, and the government was also supporting them in finding jobs.

On another subject, Szijjártó praised the work of the Hungary Helps agency which has so far carried out 360 humanitarian projects worth a combined 120 million US dollars across 64 countries.

He said the organisation’s aim was to ensure that Christian and other communities could survive where they have been living for centuries instead of being forced to leave their homeland.

He said that as a country with a thousand years of Christian statehood behind it, Hungary felt a special responsibility for Christian communities around the world.

“We believe that one’s right to live in one’s home in safe and peaceful conditions is one of the most important aspects of human rights,” he said. “The international community’s most important goal should be to restore these fundamental rights, and I think the IFRC plays a leading role in this.”

Szijjártó noted that Hungary has been a member of the IFRC since 1921.

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Francis Fukuyama: Hungary has shown that evolving backwards is possible

Francis Fukuyama, politics, PM Orbán, Hungary

Political scientist and international relations scholar Francis Fukuyama says Hungary has shown that it is possible to slide backwards from a liberal democracy to a semi-democratic system.

Francis Fukuyama, author of the book The End of History and the Last Man, gave an interview to Népszava in which he discussed, among other things, the success of Viktor Orbán, the possible re-election of Donald Trump and the future of classical liberalism.

Francis Fukuyama, politics, PM Orbán, Hungary
Francis Fukuyama at the opening of Les Rencontres économiques d’Aix-en-Provence in 2013. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Hungary’s illiberal turn

According to Fukuyama, “Hungary has shown that there is a way backwards, that is, that it is possible to slip from a true liberal democracy into a semi-democratic system. The question is whether more countries will follow Hungary down this path or whether the Danish model will prevail. And this is probably the central issue in world politics today.”

Asked by Népszava to what Viktor Orbán’s success can be attributed, Fukuyama said Orbán’s breakthrough success came during the Syrian refugee crisis. Since then, he was able to play on the fear that Hungary would lose its culture because of immigration. “Which is ironic,” the political scientist continued, “because Hungary does not actually have that many immigrants, and there is not really any cultural dilution.”

He believes that Cold War isolationism is an important factor in the turn towards populism in Hungarian political attitudes. After the regime change, Hungary “opened up a little bit to the common Europe, but it also created fears in people that they might lose something.”

Added to this, there is also a sense of nostalgia for the years of communism among certain sections of society. “I find it impossible to understand,” says Fukuyama, “but there are people who look back on communism and think, well, I had a stable job, I didn’t have to worry about having to face a complicated labour market, having to sell my skills, and so on…”

According to the political scientist, illiberal politicians all follow a similar script. One of the main elements of this is that they gain legitimacy through elections – they do not attack democracy outright, for instance, but once elected they start to dominate the media and work from there. In Hungary, too, Fukuyama points out, “the main television channels and newspapers have all fallen into the hands of people close to Orbán.”

Populist politicians then “change the constitution, they change the electoral districts to make it much harder to remove them from power. This is a process that has been going on [in Hungary] for several years.”

“Each step was small, so people didn’t realise how significant it was. But overall, Orbán has built a machine that makes it very difficult to oust him.”

A global future of illiberalism? Fukuyama is not so pessimistic

Trump Orbán
Donald Trump and Viktor Orbán pose for a picture. Photo: Viktor Orbán / Facebook

Although the global conquest of illiberalism would be “very bad in many ways,” Fukuyama warns against too hasty pessimism. He says liberal political parties still have a future – citing Poland, France, and Britain as examples, declaring “fighting back is possible.”

“Elections must be won,” he says, and although “Hungary did not get this far in the last elections, but I think the split in Fidesz gives hope that there will be fractures within the conservative coalition.”

About the upcoming elections in the United States, Fukuyama thinks that “If Trump is re-elected, it will have very, very serious consequences for both the United States and the international order. He does not like NATO. He does not support Ukraine. Putin is clearly hoping that Trump will have good relations with him.”

Drawing parallels between US and Hungarian politics, he said that he sees a tendency in both countries to turn political debate into personal attacks. “We do not just attack political opinions and party positions, we attack individuals and try to denigrate them in all kinds of ways. This is something that Donald Trump is very, very good at. And he has a lot of imitators around the world. Unfortunately, this is what right-wing politics is like in many countries, including my country and Hungary.”

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Top Hungarian horses that made history in American horse racing

Hungary, animals, horse, Kincsem Hungarian horses

Hungary, known for its rich equestrian tradition, has produced some remarkable horses that have left an indelible mark on American horse racing. These equine stars not only showcased their prowess on the racetrack but also highlighted the excellence of Hungarian breeding programs. This article delves into the top Hungarian horses that have shined in American horse races, tracing their journeys and achievements.

Kincsem: The Undefeated Legend

Kincsem, often referred to as “The Hungarian Wonder,” is arguably the most famous horse ever to come out of Hungary. Foaled in 1874, Kincsem remains one of the greatest racehorses in history, boasting an undefeated record of 54 wins in 54 races. While most of her victories occurred in Europe, her legacy significantly influenced American horse racing. 

Kincsem’s bloodline has been integrated into various American Thoroughbred breeding programs, enhancing the genetic pool and producing several successful racehorses.

Her extraordinary speed, stamina, and temperament made her a sought-after broodmare, and her descendants continue to impact the racing world. Kincsem’s legacy is a testament to Hungary’s capability to produce world-class racehorses, and her story remains an inspiration for breeders and racers alike.

Overdose: The Budapest Bullet

Overdose, fondly known as the “Budapest Bullet,” is another Hungarian horse that made headlines in the American racing scene. Foaled in 2005, Overdose quickly rose to prominence with his incredible speed and winning streak. He garnered international attention after winning his first 14 races, many of which were against top competitors in Europe.

Overdose‘s most notable moment came in 2008 when he won the prestigious Group 3 Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp in France, setting a course record. Although he faced challenges and injuries later in his career, his impact on the racing community remained profound. American breeders and racing enthusiasts closely followed his career, with many looking to incorporate his speed and agility into their own breeding programs.

Kincsem’s Descendants in American Racing

The influence of Hungarian horses in American racing is not limited to direct exports like Kincsem and Overdose. Several descendants of Hungarian Thoroughbreds have made significant marks on the American racing circuit. Kincsem’s progeny, in particular, have found success in various prestigious races across the United States.

One notable example is the mare Kincsem’s Heir, who achieved several wins in American stakes races. Her bloodline, tracing back to Kincsem, has been a valuable asset for breeders aiming to enhance their stock’s performance and endurance. This lineage has also attracted the attention of those looking to bet on horses, as pedigrees with Hungarian roots often indicate a strong potential for success on the track.

Hungarian Breeding Techniques and Their Influence

Hungarian breeding techniques have played a crucial role in producing horses that excel on the international stage. The meticulous approach to breeding, focusing on combining speed, stamina, and a calm temperament, has proven to be highly effective. Hungarian breeders have long emphasized the importance of selecting the best mares and stallions, ensuring that only the finest traits are passed on to future generations.

Incorporating Hungarian breeding methods has significantly benefited American breeders. By integrating these techniques, American breeding programs have seen improvements in the overall quality and performance of their horses. This cross-cultural exchange has enriched the genetic diversity of American racehorses, leading to more competitive and resilient athletes.

Future Prospects for Hungarian Horses in America

The future looks promising for Hungarian horses in American racing. With advancements in breeding technology and a growing appreciation for international bloodlines, Hungarian Thoroughbreds are likely to continue making waves in the United States. The success of horses like Kincsem and Overdose has paved the way for more Hungarian imports and the use of Hungarian bloodlines in American breeding programs.

Moreover, the global racing community’s increasing interconnectedness means that the exchange of breeding techniques and genetic material will only intensify. American breeders are expected to keep a keen eye on Hungarian horses, recognizing their potential to enhance the competitiveness of the local racing scene.

Conclusion

Hungarian horses have carved a unique niche in American horse racing, bringing with them a legacy of excellence and unparalleled performance. From the legendary Kincsem to the modern-day marvel Overdose, these horses have not only showcased their extraordinary abilities but also influenced the breeding practices and strategies of American racing. As the industry continues to evolve, the contributions of Hungarian horses and breeding techniques are poised to play an even more significant role, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.

PM Orbán’s warning after Moscow, Kyiv visits to EU Council President about radical war escalation

orbán in moscow putin

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán made public a summary of his visits to the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, China, and Türkiye as well as to former US President Donald Trump, together with his recommendations to Charles Michel, the head of the European Council, the PM’s press chief told MTI.

Parts of the report “have come to light already” and the prime minister will publish the complete document “in the interest of comprehension and transparency”, Bertalan Havasi said. The prime minister hopes that his report and proposals could contribute to possible future initiatives Michel “could submit to leaders of the EU given the right time and in the appropriate format”, Havasi said. The document is available on the prime minister’s website miniszterelnok.hu. But you can also read below:

“Dear President,

Please find below a summary evaluation of my recent discussions with leaders of Ukraine, Russia, China, Türkiye and President Donald J. Trump, as well as a few suggestions for your consideration.

1. It is a general observation that the intensity of the military conflict will radically escalate in the near future.

2. I personally witnessed that the warring parties are determined to involve themselves deeper into the conflict, and neither of them would like to make initiatives for a ceasefire or peace negotiations. Therefore we can assume that tensions will not decrease and the parties will not start searching for a way out of the conflict without significant external involvement.

3. There are three global players that are able to influence developments: the European Union, the United States and China. We also have to take into consideration as an important regional player Türkiye as the only successful mediator between Ukraine and Russia since the outbreak of the hostilities in 2022.

4. China will continue its policy also formulated in international documents calling for a ceasefire and peace talks. However, China will play a more active role only if the chance for success of its engagement is close to certain. In their evaluation this is not the case at the moment.

5. With regards to the United States, I experienced at the NATO Summit and during my talks with President Trump that the US is at the moment heavily preoccupied with the presidential campaign. The incumbent President is making immense efforts to stay in the race. It is obvious that he is not capable of modifying the current US pro-war policy and therefore cannot be expected to start a new policy. As we have witnessed many times over the past years, in these situations bureaucracy without political leadership will continue to go down the previous path.

6. During my talks with President Trump, I came to a conclusion that foreign policy will play only a small role in his campaign, which is dominated by internal political questions. Therefore we can expect no peace initiative coming from him until the elections. I can however surely state that shortly after his election victory, he will not wait until his inauguration, but will be ready to act as a peace broker immediately. He has detailed and well-founded plans for this.

7. I am more than convinced that in the likely outcome of the victory of President Trump, the proportion of the financial burden between the US and the EU will significantly change to the EU’s disadvantage when it comes to the financial support of Ukraine.

8. Our European strategy in the name of transatlantic unity has copied the pro-war policy of the US. We have not had a sovereign and independent European strategy or political action plan up to now. I propose discussing whether the continuation of this policy is rational in the future. In the current situation we can find a window of opportunity with a strong moral and rational basis to begin a new chapter in our policy. In this new chapter we could make an effort to decrease tensions and/or create the conditions for a temporary ceasefire and/or start peace negotiations.

9. I propose initiating a discussion on the following proposals:

a. the initiative to conduct high-level political talks with China on the modalities of the next peace conference;

b. while maintaining the current high-level political contacts with Ukraine, reopening direct lines of diplomatic communication with Russia and the rehabilitation of such direct contacts in our political communication;

c. the launch of a coordinated political offensive towards the Global South whose appreciation we have lost concerning our position on the war in Ukraine resulting in the global isolation of the transatlantic community.

10. I hope that my reports and suggestions may prove to be a useful contribution to possible proposals and initiatives you will present to EU leaders at an appropriate occasion and in a convenient format.

Yours sincerely,
Viktor ORBÁN
Budapest, 12 July 2024″

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What will the NATO say? Hungarian foreign minister holds talks with Russia’s Lavrov!

Hungarian foreign minister holds talks with Russia's Lavrov

Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó discussed the war in Ukraine and bilateral relations with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in New York on Tuesday. According to a ministry statement, Szijjártó told reporters after the meeting that Hungary wanted peace because it had been living in the shadow of the war for two and a half years now and was directly impacted by the conflict’s negative effects.

Szijjártó met Lavrov in New York again

Szijjártó said the West’s strategy had “failed”, arguing that “regardless of the weapons deliveries, regardless of the sanctions”, the situation on the battlefield had not gone the way the Europeans and the Americans had hoped.

“So if this strategy has failed then we need a new strategy,” he said. “With no solution on the battlefield, the solution must come from the negotiating table.”

This, he said, required diplomatic channels, without which “it will be very, very complicated to reach any kind of solution.”

Photo: FB/Szijjártó

Meanwhile, Szijjártó said he and Lavrov had also touched on bilateral issues, including the upgrade of Hungary’s Paks nuclear power plant. He said he is scheduled to discuss the matter with Alexei Likhachev, the head of Russian nuclear energy company Rosatom, in Istanbul on Wednesday, because “there is a very interesting development”.

He noted that though Rosatom is the main contractor on the upgrade, there are also American, German and French companies working on the project, which he said “offers hope” for an eventual return to “normality” in international relations.

Joint work in nuclear projects

“Because if American, German, French and Russian companies can work together on a nuclear project, then they might be able to work together on another project as well in the future,” he added.

paks expansion
Paks II NPP project. Source: Facebook/Szijjártó Péter

Turning to the issue of oil and gas supply, Szijjártó said gas deliveries were running smoothly, but Lukoil was currently not delivering oil to Hungary via Ukraine, and a legal solution was being sought in an effort to restart deliveries.

He said they also discussed Hungarian higher-education scholarships for Russian students, and they have also scheduled the next meeting of the Hungarian-Russian joint economic committee for Sept 20, which will also include an economic forum.

Szijjártó said the aim was to continue developing cooperation between the two countries in areas not affected by sanctions, as several Hungarian companies were successful on the Russian market in sectors like agriculture and the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Szijjártó: ‘Civilised East-West cooperation’ essential to meeting sustainable development goals

Civilised East-West cooperation is essential to achieving UN sustainable development and environmental protection goals, Szijjártó said in New York. UN climate protection goals set a few years ago will affect the future of the entire planet, the ministry cited Szijjarto telling a high-level political forum on sustainable development at the United Nations in New York on Tuesday.

PM Orbán arrived in Washington while NATO allies call him Putin's useful idiot
PM Orbán in Moscow. Photo: FB/Orbán

“Last year was the warmest year ever, and the past decade was the warmest ever decade … so it clearly shows that environmental protection must be an important issue in the long term,” he said.

“If the major countries in world politics do not talk to each other, if they cut the diplomatic channels, if they are unable to maintained civilised cooperation, then we cannot achieve results in matters that are important for the future of the entire planet,” he added. Szijjarto said that achieving the UN sustainable development goals and protecting the environment would be impossible globally if the major states continued to refuse to talk to each other.

Nuclear energy reliable and sustainable

“Without a civilised East-West cooperation, it is impossible to achieve results in important matters affecting the future of the planet. In a cold war atmosphere it will be impossible to fulfil the environmental protection and sustainable development goals,” he said.

He added that Hungary showed an encouraging example, citing the expansion project of the Paks nuclear power station, which, he said, proved that despite all ideological attacks, nuclear energy could be used to produce a large volume of electricity in a reliable and sustainable way.

He noted that the general contractor for the project is Russian, but American, German and French subcontractors are also involved. Such cooperation “shows common sense prevailing over political prejudice and ideological motivations”, he added.

“There is still a chance for international cooperation based on common sense, even among those that for the time being refuse to even talk to each other in politics,” he said.

Stigmatising country for keeping diplomatic channels open ‘unacceptable’, says minister

Szijjártó said it was “unacceptable” that a country should be stigmatised in the transatlantic community for holding talks in the interest of peace and arguing in support of keeping diplomatic channels open. The ministry cited Szijjártó as saying in New York that the current Russian presidency of the UN Security Council had convened a meeting on the global security situation, and he would address the meeting on behalf of Hungary which has been living in the shadow of the war in Ukraine for two and a half years.

He said thousands of people were dying in the neighbouring country and there was a threat of the danger of destruction, plus the conflict carried a long-term risk for the reformation of blocs in the world and the return of the Cold War era. Hungary, he added, had already lost out on such a situation once and did not want to get in the same situation again.

“I have been a foreign minister for nearly ten years and during these ten years attended numerous EU meetings where we discussed wars and armed conflicts taking place in various parts of the world, usually far away from Europe, and every time the European Union, European counterparts, the Brussels bureaucrats, and the high representative for foreign affairs stated in an arrogant and scornful manner that everyone must be called on to restore peace, lay down their arms, and everyone must be called on to find a peaceful solution to the war conflict,” he said.

Currently, however, in the case of the war in Ukraine, “the EU, the European bureaucrats and leaders argue for the direct opposite”, he said.

“Not only do they not want peace talks, not only do they continually sharpen the conflict and not only do they not consider escalation a danger, but when someone talks about peace and calls for talks, they immediately brand them ‘a Putin puppet, a spy of the Russians, a Kremlin’s propagandist, a Trojan horse’, etc.,” Szijjártó said.

He also lamented that they questioned the legitimacy of using diplomatic channels, which he said was unacceptable.

“It is unacceptable in the 21st century that someone should be stigmatised in Europe, America and the transatlantic community for arguing in support of keeping a given country’s diplomatic channels open … because a given country pursues diplomatic talks in the interest of peace,” he said.

He also said that recent years had demonstrated that Europe was following the wrong path in terms of its leaders having practically given up on the possibility of an independent strategy concerning the war and instead copying the American strategy, disregarding all considerations of their own.

Szijjártó said the continent had consequently found itself having to live in the shadow of the danger of war, with the risk of escalation being extremely high.

“It is high time for Europe to go its own way in terms of the war in Ukraine,” he said. “It is high time for Europe to have its strategy for peace, because the war is under way in Europe, with Europeans dying and a European country standing on the verge of destruction, so the madness must be stopped at this point.”

If the situation did not change, the war would get out of control and the risk of escalation would be “dramatically higher”, Szijjártó said.

The UN has been established exactly for the purpose of ensuring that everyone could talk to each other, even in case they were enemies, he added.

“In light of this, the European efforts to ban certain countries from maintaining talks with the Russians, the Belarusians and the Chinese under the auspices of the UN was totally unacceptable,” he said.

“Europe must return to the grounds of common sense and the path of diplomatic solutions; the legitimacy of the use of diplomatic channels must be given back, and diplomatic channels must be reopened with Russia, while simultaneously talks must be held with the Ukrainians because this could be the only solution to the war,” he said.

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Trump chooses Orbán-fan Ohio senator as running mate

After an assassination attempt in a Pennsylvania rally, former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump nominated J. D. Vance, an Ohio senator, to be his running mate and, if elected, serve as the VP of the USA. Mr Vance was a strong supporter of Orbán’s policies before. For example, he praised the scheme of foundation-run universities in an interview.

The next vice president of Trump is an Orbán fan

Vance is from Ohio, and, according to the BBC, Trump would like to garner all support he can from the Midwest battleground states with his nomination. “With his [blue-collar] background, Vance could be well positioned to connect with and energise the kind of white, working class voters who narrowly delivered those states to Trump in 2016”, the news outlet wrote.

Vance was not a supporter of Trump before but became a reliable ally after the 2016 victory. “They have similar views on trade, immigration and foreign policy. Mr Vance has been particularly critical of continued US support for Ukraine”, BBC wrote about him.

Orbán says President Trump will end the war in Ukraine
Trump and Orbán in Florida 2 days before the assassination attempt. Photo: FB/Orbán

Vance praised Orbán in a May interview with CBS. Talking about the creation of foundation-run universities where Orbán nominated his allies to govern the Hungarian universities, Vance said it was reasonable that the taxpayers would like to influence the operation of universities using their money. “Orbán made some clever decisions we could learn from in the USA”, he added. He highlighted that American universities are run by leftist foundations instead of the taxpayers.

Vance is 39 years old, so his appearance in the White House may bring a new generation of Republicans into the US leadership.

JD Vance Orbán-fun Trump VP
Photo: FB/JD Vance

Government official discusses strengthening bilateral cooperation in Washington

Levente Magyar, the foreign ministry’s state secretary, held talks with US government officials and representatives of the private sector in Washington, DC on Monday, with the aim of strengthening bilateral cooperation, MTI wrote.

He told MTI Hungary and the United States was bonded by a several-decades military alliance and friendship.

“Even though there are important issues we often see differently, it is important, even essential, for us to discuss those issues in earnest and in a calm tone as close allies and friends,” Magyar said, adding that his visit had served that purpose.

He highlighted his talks with Jim O’Brien, the State Department’s Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, which focused on the situation in Ukraine and the assessment of Hungary’s peace mission. Magyar noted a difference in the two countries’ approach to “this quite complex and difficult issues”, but they understood each other’s motivation and frameworks of interpretation, and would continue to seek common points of understanding, he added.

Magyar also said he had talks with representatives in the business sector with the aim of strengthening the presence of American companies in Hungary and bringing new investments to various branches of industry.

Magyar noted his talks with Maria Korsnick, the president and chief executive of the Nuclear Energy Institute, where they discussed technologies under development that Hungary as “a friend of nuclear energy” might consider interesting.

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  • Trump ‘guarantee of peace, good Hungary-US relations’, says Hungarian foreign minister in NY – Read more HERE
  • Trump: Hungarians fight to save Western civilisation

Orbán: Trump is anti-war, so war-supporters tried to kill him

Orbán says President Trump will end the war in Ukraine Orbán cabinet

The assassination attempt against former US President Donald Trump is a facet of a political culture which says that a political opponent is a threat to the nation and democracy and so all means are justified, Balázs Orbán, the political director of the prime minister’s office, said in an interview to public radio on Monday.

He said liberal politicians in Brussels were saying day in, day out that once the right-wing came to power democracy was doomed.

“All extremists find this kind of rhetoric as pretext: to prevent evil, all means are justified,” he added.

This should not become part of the political culture, he said. Criticism was okay, he said, but human dignity was vital, he added.

Orbán said the democratic will in Hungary, Europe and America showed that “people don’t accept various liberal pro-war, migration policies.”

During dinner with Donald Trump in Florida they agreed that American politics had become “hardened for good”, he said.

It was clear, he insisted, that the West thought of itself as being in a war with Russia “and in times of war all means are permitted”. So those who speak against the war were seen as internal enemies, he added.

Orbán Trump saviours of the world
Some Orbán supporters believe Orbán and Trump together will end the war in Ukraine. Photo: Facebook/Viktor Orbán

European allies “stuck” in their war strategy

This attitude, he said, was typical of the Western press and put Hungary in the cross-hairs, too. “Hungary must be preserved as an island of peace and these extreme attitudes must be kept outside the country’s borders.”

Orbán said the warring parties needed potential mediators to map a route to peace, and China and Turkiye appeared to be committed in this direction. But “the liberal American leadership” and their European allies were “stuck” in their war strategy.

He said Trump had made it clear, on the other hand, that he would solve the issue alone. “But Europe must act in the meantime, which is why the Hungarian prime minister wrote a report for Brussels and has proposed a strategic change of direction,” he said.

He said that while America was mired internal political crises, Europe could take their fate into their own hands and act as peace mediators.

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