Canada

Canada taking interest in Hungary’s aid policies benefiting persecuted Christians

Canada interested in Hungary's aid policies benefiting persecuted Christians

Tristan Azbej, the foreign ministry state secretary for aiding persecuted Christians, said that he had briefed Canadian politicians and church leaders about the protection of persecuted Christians and the targets of Hungarian development policy during a visit that concluded on Friday.

Azbej said that common ground was found in some areas of development policy at a meeting with a representative of the Liberals-led Canadian government. Conservative opposition politicians showed “total openness” to Hungary’s approach concerning persecuted Christian communities, he added.

Azbej said he had met Canada’s Deputy Minister of International Development and Global Affairs Christopher MacLennan and briefed him about the targets of the Hungary Helps Programme, which includes the protection of persecuted Christians and offering help to prevent migration.

Among opposition members, he said he had held talks with Garnett Genuis, shadow minister for development policy, and MP Richard Bragdon, head of the National Prayer Breakfast.

He also met representatives of the Canadian Catholic church and Auxiliary Bishop of Ottawa-Cornwall Yvan Mathieu.

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PHOTOS: Hungarian cop protects 40-50 thousand locals in Toronto!

Hungarian cop protects 40-50k locals in Toronto

Balázs Zanati was born in Keszthely but serves in Toronto, where he is responsible for the safety and security of at least 40-50 thousand locals. He is a friend of Arnold Schwarzenegger and talked about his job and how former colleagues welcomed him home to a Hungarian tabloid.

Hungarian cop in Toronto

Mr Zanati is a member of the Canada Toronto Police Service and serves as a neighbourhood officer in the 14th division. The father of three kids told Blikk that he does not have a red uniform or a hat and never sits on the back of a horse. He said building a community and creating relationships with the people is part of their job as neighbourhood officers.

Toronto has 16 police districts, and each district has divisions. He said he regularly had to deal with drug traders, users and armed bands fighting even each other. The neighbourhood officer institution enables people to meet the same cops each day, lowering anxiety.

“We stop to chat with them and see what is going on in the shops, markets, restaurants. A strong trust relationship can be developed, so they will turn to us when something goes wrong. I can give my official number to anybody, so people feel as if they have their own officer at hand”, Zanati added.

Toronto struggles with drugs, theft, armed bands

He said problems were different in Canada than in Hungary. In Toronto, he struggles with drug consumption and trade, armed groups and car thefts.

Meeting with colleagues from Zugló:

He said he saw things he would never forget. For example, once he arrived first at a murder scene and tried to revitalise the victim unsuccessfully. Another time, doctors cut a leg in front of him and gave it to him to place the limb in a cold store because it may serve as evidence later.

Bulletproof vests and GPS body cameras are part of their equipment there. Therefore, he can check out the areas he already monitored. Furthermore, the cameras affect people’s behaviour since the records can serve as evidence in a court trial. Civilians regularly call them “Sir” and people respect their work.

At Lake Balaton with his kids:

Hungarian cop in Toronto at LAke Balaton
Photo: FB/Balázs Zanati

He was a military officer before

Zanati served as a military officer in Hungary, then left the country for Toronto in 2005, seeking adventure. When the global financial crisis hit the country in 2008, he worked in a car dealership, which closed. His friends from the gym recommended him to the local police.

Hungarian cop protects 40-50k locals in Toronto
Photo: FB/Balázs Zanati

He succeeded in the application process at first attempt. Good communication and problem-solving skills, life experience and even his Hungarian language knowledge were essential. A Hungarian community of 50 thousand people live in and around Toronto. There are 8,000 police officers, but only 3 or 4 speak Hungarian.

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Orbán cabinet takes further steps to rebuild trust with Ukraine

Hungarian government rebuilding trust with Ukraine

The Hungarian government has taken further steps in recent weeks “so that we can again talk about mutual trust in Hungary-Ukraine relations,” the foreign minister said on Facebook late on Wednesday.

Péter Szijjártó mentioned, for example, changes to the interstate agreement on border crossing, adding that the changes would help eliminate “unfair” situations at the border between the two countries. “We are looking forward to tomorrow’s meeting of the Hungarian-Ukrainian education team with hope, since the most important task is to restore the rights of the Hungarian community in Transcarpathia to education and the use of their mother tongue,” the minister said.

Referring to an infrastructure development project at Fenyeslitke crossing station, Szijjártó said it would facilitate reloading an annual one million containers or three million tonnes of grain and cooking oil, which could “contribute to maintaining Ukraine’s exports to Europe”.

Hungarian government rebuilding trust with Ukraine
Photo: FB/Szijjártó

In another Facebook entry Szijjártó mentioned Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, and said “we have set the goal to give new momentum to the cooperation between Hungary and Canada”. He noted Hungary’s upcoming European Union presidency and that Canada would be the rotating president of the G7 next year.

“Our defence cooperation is an important pillar of Hungary’s security,” Szijjártó said, and noted that Canada had provided training to Hungarian fighter pilots in recent years and that the Hungarian military had purchased its air defence radar systems partly from Canada.

“Both countries are in the nuclear camp, with nuclear energy having an over 10 percent share (in total consumption) and we have agreed that we would exploit opportunities in research and development cooperation,” the minister said.

Szijjártó also said Hungary’s exports to Canada, mainly food products, exceeded an annual 450 million dollars, adding that it was “a great record”.

With Melanie Joy
With Melanie Joy. Photo: FB/Szijjártó

Read also:

  • Russian agents operating in Hungary identified – Read more HERE
  • Putin’s insider: If Trump wins, Croatia will be divided between Serbia and Hungary

Canadian university will use Hungarian 3D brain imaging tech

Canadian university to use Hungarian 3d brain imaging technology (Copy)

A Hungarian brain-imaging microscope employing 3D imaging technology, Femto3D Atlas, was handed over to McGill University in Canada on Thursday in cooperation with the Hungarian embassy in Ottawa.

Hungarian ambassador Mária Vass-Salazar said the embassy considered R+D+I to be a priority in strengthening Hungarian-Canadian relations, adding that interest in value-added high-tech Hungarian products was strong in Canada.

McGill’s vice-president, Anja Geitman, said the Femtonics device aptly illustrated Hungary’s technological expertise and capacity for innovation, and testified to the importance of international cooperation in high-level research.

Neurons are scanned in 3D using the device, allowing representation of complex neural activity.

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  • AI high tech smart prison to be built in Hungary – Read more HERE
  • Hungarian police use more and more drones

Coastal Charms: Seaside Serenity and Adventure in Canada

Coastal Charms Seaside Serenity and Adventure in Canada (Copy)

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Known for its welcoming hospitality, vivid culture and serene natural beauty the Canadian coast proves to be an irresistible attraction to visitors from across the globe. If you’re looking ahead to enjoy some seaside serenity and adventure in Canada, then here are some places to check out. Before planning make sure to check out Canadian passport renewal online so that you can make everything easy go.

Witness icebergs on the Canadian east cost

The eastern coast of Canada houses some amazing natural beauties you wouldn’t find elsewhere. If you’re travelling in late May or June you will witness several 10,000 year aged icebergs cruise in the Iceberg Alley, the segment between the northeast point of Newfoundland and cost of Labrador. The size of the icebergs is a sight to witness and you will come across several shoreline viewpoints in Labrador and Newfoundland such as Bonavista, Cape St. Mary’s, St. Lewis, Twilingate and Battle Harbor.

If you wish to enjoy a deeper, closer and personal view of these icy giants, you can choose a boat tour or kayak for a mesmerizing experience.

Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick

If you don’t want to choose between high tide or low tide, then Hopewell Rocks at the Bay of Fundy is the best place to go to. Witness the best of both worlds. The place houses the highest tides of the world and will give you an experience like no other place on the earth. At the time of low tide, you will witness the secrets of Hopewell Rocks. Submerge your legs in the warm sand of the ocean bed and assess the area’s geology. Witness the hidden coves and explore how the gushing tides continue their work of shaping the rocks even now.

A few hours later, you will notice the high tides returning and the water will cuddle the renowned Flowerpot Rocks, offering a completely varied view of this nature marvel.

Take a kayak and paddle your way to the sandstone pillars or enjoy from the dry land. Spend a full day here to enjoy both tide views.

Watch whales in the Bay of Fundy

Is whale watching on your bucket list? If yes, then your visit to Bay of Fundy will make your dream turn to reality. The Bay offers an exceptional feeding ground for a series of nature’s biggest mammals. Before winters and in summer, you will find Humpback, Minke, North Atlantic Right Whale and Finback commonly here.

And along with whales, you will also find dolphins, sharks, seals and several sea birds like gannets and puffins. Book an excursion from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to experience whale watching.

Newfoundland lighthouses

The consistently changing North Atlantic waters are known for their rowdy storms, dark fog and concealed rock formations. Some saddening shipwrecks and lost sailors here along the rugged coastline of Labrador and Newfoundland found hope on the banks of Fort Amherst in 1813.

Post that, the areas has some uniquely painted lighthouses in its shoreline to guide and help boats during danger. Most of the legendary landmarks are accessible to tourists

Gain the titanic experience

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic shares the heartfelt story of Halifax link to the 1912 titanic tragedy. It is the nearest seaport to the drowned ship and played a major role in the aggressive search for the sunken victims. The port sent ships which sited 328 bodies, 150 are buried in the cemeteries of Halifax.

There are many unique artifacts discovered in the chilly water floating such as wooden deck chair, fragments of life jackets and small pair of leather shoes of kids.

Visit the fishing villages

If you want to do something unique and extraordinary in the eastern coast of Canada, then visit the charming fishing villages. It is a perfect photoshoot location. Check out the Petty Harbor, Trinity and Quidi Vidi for an exceptional experience.

Visit Cape Spear

Your trip to Canadian coast is incomplete if you haven’t seen the most easterly point of Canada. Just a 20-minute drive from St. John and you will explore the oldest surviving lighthouse of the place. Cape Spear Lighthouse is an iconic place in Newfoundland and a must visit for all. You will also witness the splendid rugged Cliffside and enjoy remarkable views of the Atlantic. Visit the place for its extraordinary history and enjoy the serene views.

Read also:

  • Hungarian movie wins best film in Toronto – Read more HERE
  • Tourism agency head shared when Transatlantic flights could return to Budapest

Tourism agency head shared when Transatlantic flights could return to Budapest

Hungarian Tourism Agency head shared when Transatlantic flights could return to Budapest

Zoltán Guller, the president of the directorate of the Hungarian Tourism Agency (MTÜ) talked about the possible return of Transatlantic flights to Budapest in a press conference.

According to Budflyer, a Hungarian travel news Facebook page, Mr Guller said he hoped the state acquisition of Budapest Airport would happen soon. Afterwards, he expects a considerable extension in the airport’s air traffic. As a result, Transatlantic flights may return in 2025 with North American routes.

Budapest is one of the few Central European capitals which do not have a direct air connection to the United States or Canada. In Romania, HySky announced they would launch direct flights between Bucharest and New York. Furthermore, they will begin to operate flights from Kolozsvár (Cluj Napoca) and Chișinău, Moldova, to Bucharest to connect more potential passengers with their Transatlantic flights.

Meanwhile, Hungary was not able to establish direct flights to the USA despite the hundreds of thousands of Hungarians living there and the fact that before the COVID pandemic, regular flights carried passengers between Budapest and American metropolises like Chicago and New York.

Experts believe that is because of the conflicts between the Orbán cabinet and the Biden-led Washington administration. For example, the USA unilaterally terminated a taxation agreement and introduced restrictions concerning Hungarian passport holders last year.

Read also:

  • US Ambassador urgently travels back to Washington: will he return with new sanctions? – Read more HERE
  • Trump: PM Orbán is the ‘toughest man’ in Europe – VIDEO and more in THIS article

The first Transatlantic direct flights from 2024-2025

2025 may mark a change in that, Zoltán Guller said yesterday.

According to the Világgazdaság, despite the non-existent direct connection, the number of American tourists in Hungary grew by 30% in 2023 compared to COVID-19-hit 2022. However, that rise is incomparable with the skyrocketing number of Chinese tourists in Hungary. That rate was 400% since the Beijing-Budapest flight started last April. The same trend applies to South Korea, from where the increase reached 300%.

Guller said 2024 would see an identical flight number at Budapest Airport as 2019. Furthermore, the airport’s state acquisition will better the position of the Hungarian tourism sector. Interestingly, he suggested that the first three contracts concerning the new flights might be signed in 2024.

László Könnyid, the newly-appointed CEO of the MTÜ, said that Budapest would appear again on the flight map of Europe in 2025.

Comparative Analysis of Online Gambling Laws: Hungary and Canada

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The digital gambling era is evolving, as online casinos are now more accessible. Players can enjoy their favourite slots and other games on any device wherever they are, which makes this pastime so attractive. However, the alarming rate of compulsive gaming and fraud gives rise to the need to develop corresponding legislation. For some countries, completely banning the sector is a way out; all casinos are prohibited, so users cannot freely reach them.

On the other hand, gambling companies are the important taxpayers, bringing significant income to budgets. Therefore, countries’ governments implement appropriate industry regulations. Hungary and Canada are among the states allowing this risky entertainment, but they both boast specific gambling laws. They have unique approaches to the sector, so let’s look at the main details.

Overview of Online Gambling in Hungary

It’s estimated that around 4% of the overall Hungarian population is engaged in the gambling industry in 2024. The demand for virtual entertainment is growing, so appropriate legislation has been released. All gambling types, including online casinos, card games, and sports betting, are not prohibited. However, it’s worth noting that these are only allowed when a platform operates under particular licensing.

Hungary’s in-state regulatory authority, Szerencsejáték Zrt, had a monopoly on regulating all casinos and sportsbooks’ activities. The latest amendments in January 2023 ended its powers, allowing all operators licensed by EU regulatory bodies to enter the Hungarian market. Service providers must comply with all the rules and requirements set by the license issuer; otherwise, they will be considered illegal in the country.

Overview of Online Gambling in Canada

Canada has one of the most well-developed gambling infrastructures globally; it’s not a secret that this pastime can be considered national entertainment in the country. The industry generates approximately $10 billion in annual revenue, and around 60% of residents reported participating in online casinos and sports betting. However, the state gambling legislation can be tricky, as gambling is not allowed at the federal level. Each separate province government decides whether to legalize or prohibit this activity.

Luckily for operators and players, many regions have decided to allow gambling. Legal operations require appropriate regulatory authorities: for instance, the Alcohol and Gambling Commission in Ontario is the primary license issuer. Also, when we talk about regulations of transactions in Canada, there are special bodies such as FINTRAC which are responsible for this part. It thoroughly monitors all activities of certified online casinos and bookmakers, ensuring they operate according to the requirements. It’s worth noting that only users over 19 are allowed to engage in this pastime – while most countries accept 18+ players. Online gambling is officially available only in Ontario, and other provinces cannot boast such laws.

However, it doesn’t mean that Alberta or Nova Scotia residents cannot enjoy gaming activities. The thing is, that the local regulators only control land-based casinos and bookmaker offices. Users can still play on offshore platforms, but ensuring they operate under appropriate licensing is essential.

Focus on Casino Bonuses

Promotions are the most lucrative part of online gambling activities: players are inspired by the possibility of claiming casino bonuses on first deposit and enjoying more slots and games with the same expenses. Neither Hungary nor Canada prohibits bonuses, so users from both countries can enjoy additional perks from the chosen operator. However, players may face limitations concerning maximum deposits and the sum they can win eventually. The thing is that regulatory authorities aim to minimize the harmful effects of online gambling. Therefore, they need to ensure a player won’t invest more than they can afford.

From their side, gambling operators in Hungary and Canada are obliged to pay out winnings on a full scale and on time. Online casinos must provide clear and fair bonus usage conditions so players can take advantage of the chosen offer and ensure transparency.

Comparing Regulatory Approaches

Hungary and Canada have similar approaches to online gambling; the activity is legal in both countries if a casino operates under the required certification. The taxation system is also the same, as lucky winners don’t have to pay anything from the sum they withdraw from gaming websites. While all gambling activities are allowed in Hungary, the Canadian government allows every separate province to choose whether to legalize gambling. Therefore, virtual casinos are available not in all regions of the country.

Both states stick to similar principles in terms of gambling regulations and restrictions. Promoting a healthy approach to this online entertainment is also essential, so operators globally must comply with a set of rules to guarantee a safe and transparent environment for players. Moreover, Canadian casinos can only accept users over 19, while Hungary allows gambling once an individual reaches 18 years.

Implications of Different Regulatory Models

Online gambling is in more demand in Canada, as over 60% of locals are engaged in the activity. At the same time, only 4% of Hungarian residents reported playing in online casinos. The high accessibility of offshore gaming platforms boosts this number, so North America is the winner. Many would say that such a demand for this hobby may raise the number of addicted individuals. According to the latest statistics, only 0.6% of the country’s population suffers from this disorder. On the contrary, the problem gaming rate in Hungary reached 1.9%, which should be addressed as soon as possible.


The Canadian regulatory authority heavily invests in customer awareness of possible negative consequences of playing in online casinos. Promoting the responsible gambling policy encourages users to control themselves and place appropriate limitations on online casinos. At the same time, lower demand for this entertainment in Hungary makes authorities avoid the problem. Therefore, the country’s government should provide more guidance on this issue to decrease the compulsive gambling rate.

Final Insight

While the basic principles and regulations in the Canadian and Hungarian gambling markets are pretty much the same, there are still some differences. This business is more widespread in North America, so locals can face more opportunities. At the same time, they are well-informed about problems this pastime can bring, allowing for a decrease in the number of addicts. Hungarian players also have a broad choice of licensed gaming halls, as companies licensed across the EU are accessible. The country’s government should strengthen players’ awareness of responsible policies to guarantee a healthier gambling landscape.

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.

Hungarian team wins silver medal at one of the world’s most prestigious MBA competitions

Second-Place-Winners- Corvinus Team

At the John Molson International MBA Case Competition in Canada, students from 30 universities around the world competed against each other, with the Corvinus beating the hosts in the semi-finals.

The Corvinus students competed against teams from Australia, the US, the UK, South Africa, the Dominican Republic, the Netherlands, Ireland, Canada, Colombia, Germany, Sweden, and Singapore in the John Molson MBA International Business School Case Competition at Concordia University in Montreal during the first week of January. The competition is the largest and toughest global competition in the world for the MBA students (Master of Business Administration, the world’s most popular business degree), and aims to bridge the gap between the corporate and academic worlds.

The case solving was conducted under strict rules, without the use of the internet, and based on personal experience and insights. Competitors typically had three hours to analyse and evaluate a complex business problem and present their solution. In addition to creativity, the teams were judged on their success in identifying the problem and the feasibility of the idea.

The Hungarian team of Adél Hadházy, Luca Horváth, Tamás Józsa and Gergely Keményfi competed in the final against students from Lund University in Sweden and the University of Münster in Germany, with the latter coming first. The Hungarian second place is the best result in the history of Corvinus in John Molson International MBA Case Competition competition.

Corvinus team_Montreal
Luca Horváth, Tamás Józsa, Balázs Felsmann (coaching teacher), Adél Hadházy and Gergely Keményfi. Credit: Corvinus University of Budapest

“The most difficult challenge for us was the so-called “live case” exercise, during which the company problem was presented live on the spot by the CEO of the company himself. The main challenge was to quickly find a rational and feasible solution to the company’s complex problem based on limited information. We thought we performed best in the semi-final, where we developed a long-term growth strategy to address the environmental challenges of a Swiss automotive company. Our insights proved to be both creative and rational, and the feedback from the judges showed that our strong team unity set us apart from the other two teams in the semi-final. With this result, we beat the previously unbeaten University of New South Wales and the host Concordia University team,” said Tamás Józsa, representing the student team of Corvinus.

“This competition is incredibly difficult and is considered the best of the MBA competitions. The team members have once again demonstrated their outstanding preparation, perseverance, and enthusiasm. The result is also a great confirmation of the high quality of practice-oriented education at Corvinus. As a coach teacher, I am proud that we have reached the finals of this competition twice in the last three years, which is a testament to the excellence of our talent management programme and our students,” said Balázs Felsmann, the team’s mentor and associate professor at Corvinus.

The Corvinus team has already achieved great success in the past; last November they were the first European team to win the Cornell University Emerging Markets Institute International Case Competition, among 126 competing teams.

As we wrote earlier, Hungarian universities are to host the 2024 European Universities Games, details HERE.

Also we wrote before, most Hungarian universities excluded from the EU’s international research support program, details HERE.

EXCLUSIVE – Shareholder’s warning: Budapest Airport’s purchase may not happen

Budapest Airport Schengen

According to Hungary’s Ministry of National Economy, the government may sign the relevant contract to buy Budapest Airport this spring. However, one of the shareholders sent us a message in which they clear that may not happen.

Márton Nagy, Hungary’s minister of national economy, a new ministry created after the Christmas festivities by PM Orbán, said the government would sign the relevant contracts with the shareholders of the Budapest Airport this spring. There are three shareholders: the German AviAlliance (54.44%), a Canadian pension fund, the Canadian Pension fund Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments, 21.23%), and Malton (Singapore) with 23.33%.

Mr Nagy added that negotiations were in a state that a contract might be signed soon. PM Orbán said on his 21 December international press conference that the airport’s purchase is a “finished issue”. He added only technicalities remained to discuss and agree on.

The European Commission approved the purchase of Hungary’s main airgate last December. The buyers will be the Hungarian state-owned Corvinus Investments and the French Vinci Airports. The majority of the shares will be in Hungarian hands, while the French will operate the airport. We wrote about that HERE.

The Hungarian government said they would include a Qatar state-owned investments fund. Furthermore, the Orbán cabinet promised to build a new terminal after the acquisition, airportal.hu wrote. Hvg.hu added that the Qatar fund would join the project as a financial or strategic investor.

Shareholder’s warning: Budapest Airport’s purchase may not happen

We received a letter lately from one of the shareholders of the Canadian pension fund writing that the purchase of the airport is not as sure as PM Orbán suggested at the last December press conference. Here is their unchanged email:

“I’m a share holder in the Canadian Pension fund Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) Canada. Shareholders still have not voted yet on the proposed offer from Hungarian authorities. It’s not a done deal.

Don’t listen to Hungarian authorities – of course, they will try to present a positive position. Contact the current owners for their perspective. There is still no agreement on price and value of transaction. Once it’s been agreed, then the offer must go before the shareholders for a vote.

The airport is currently operating very well. There is concern with the EU, that if the Hungarian government in any way becomes involved, it’s going to be unsuccessful; as was the case previously. This transaction is a long way from completion.”

December decision might serve as a compass

24.hu wrote that between 16 and 21 November, the three shareholders of the Budapest Airport’s owner company decided to separate their shares into three. That means they are preparing for an acquisition during which three new shareholders would replace the old ones.

AviAlliance created the following packages: 28.28%, 16.08% and 11.09%. Malton’s numbers are the following ones: 11.9%, 6.77%, 4.67%. Finally, here are the share packs of the Canadian pension fund: 10.83%, 6.16%, and 4.24%. If you add those numbers up, these are the new owner packages: 51% for the state-owned Hungarian Corvinus, 29% for the French and 20% for the Qatari investors.

24.hu added last December that it is not enough to reach an agreement with the shareholders. The Hungarian government must negotiate and agree with the airport’s creditors. The different types of loans concerning the airport reach EUR 1.5 billion.

Read also:

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Hungarian movie wins best film in Toronto

Semmelweis movie

Semmelweis, a feature directed by Lajos Koltai, has won the main prize, based on the audience’s rating, at the 19th Toronto European Film Festival, the National Film Institute (NFI) said on Saturday.

The eponymous film about the celebrated Hungarian doctor known as the “saviour of mothers”, who understood the importance of avoiding postpartum bacterial infection, is on general release in Hungary and has also received its world premiere in New York and Los Angeles, Impress Magazin says.

Semmelweis was produced by Szupermodern Filmstudio with the support of the National Film Institute. Produced by Tamás Lajos and Joe Vida, the cinematographer was András Nagy, with a screenplay written by Balázs Maruszki.

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The operator of Budapest Airport will change: here is what follows

Budapest Airport new airlines

The Orbán government has been planning to buy Budapest Airport from its German-Canadian owners for a while. Since the price was too high, they sought a partner. At first, it seemed the second investor would come from the Middle East, but now it is clear that the French will be those who may acquire not only 49% of the shares but also the right to operate Hungary’s most crowded airport.

The price of Budapest Airport is high for the Hungarian state budget that is struggling with an economic depression. Based on the latest news, the offer towards the German and Canadian owners was around EUR 4 billion. The Hungarian government needs to find at least half of the price, while the other half will be covered by the French partners.

That is why the Orbán cabinet sold its shares in two insurer companies, the Alfa and the Union. However, that transaction may bring “only” EUR 480 million. Therefore, the government issued Eurobonds, and the talk is about a possible French loan. Despite the problems of the Hungarian economy, it seems the Orbán cabinet decided to acquire the airport, no matter the costs and the difficulties.

What will the transaction mean for us, passengers?

At first sight, not much. But, unfortunately, we cannot see many things.

According to the official gazette of the European Union, the French Vinci Airports and the Hungarian state (the Corvinus International Investment Ltd) will buy Budapest Airport. The European Commission will investigate the transaction in a simplified procedure. All third parties have the right to submit their remarks on the issue in the ten days following 28 November.

Interestingly, a Canadian pension fund (PSP Investments) and a German company owned the shares of the Budapest Airport. The European Union’s official gazette wrote that PSP Investments will get operation rights in the international airport of Athens through AviAlliance, a company they own.

The European Commission decided on the transaction. AviAlliance currently operates the international airports of Budapest, Athens, Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Puerto Rico, turizmus.com, a Hungarian travel and tourism news outlet, wrote.

Read also:

  • Scandal on Lufthansa’s Budapest flight: Canadian man suffered burns – Read more HERE
  • New destinations from Budapest Airport in the winter season – Details in THIS article

Next Friday Budapest Airport may get a new owner: everything will change?

Budapest Airport Schengen

The government has to conclude the business, but there is not enough money. How will Orbán get the needed sum?

Buying up Hungary’s main airgate, the Budapest Airport, is one of the most important goals of the fifth Orbán government. Before the elections, we received only gossip and guesses about how the deal will be closed. Now we know more.

Currently, Canadian and German firms own the shares of the Budapest Airport, so we can say that it is in foreign hands. After the deal, 51% of the shares will be in the ownership of the Hungarian state, while another 49% will be in the hands of Vinci Airports. The latter is the world’s nr 1 airport manager, operating 65 airports in 13 countries. We can say they have the know-how. That is probably why they will get the management rights. As a result, Budapest Airport’s operation will no longer be in the hands of a German but a French company, telex.hu wrote.

We wrote HERE why and how the Orbán cabinet would like to create a much more friendly relationship with the French. Apart from the fact that they would like to cooperate with Macron against the so-called American “conquest” of the EU, the Hungarian prime minister counts on his French partner to defend Hungary’s (the government’s) interests in the European Union, even against the European Commission. For example, they would like the French to help Hungary get the euro billions Brussels froze due to rule of law concerns. Probably that is why Hungary sent military and other help to Chad in Africa. In return, that is why Marcon said Orbán’s meeting with Putin in Beijing might become fruitful for the Western alliance.

A clear sign of the weakening German ties is that Construction and Development Minister János Lázár talked about sending home German and Austrian companies because the government would like to see Hungarians flourishing in the construction and building material sector.

Budapest Airport costs way too much: money collection started

We wrote before that the French might partner with the Hungarian government to buy the Budapest Airport. However, the business is not easy for Budapest because the state treasury is empty.

Therefore, the government sold its shares in two Hungarian insurer companies (Alfa and Union) for an estimated sum of EUR 480 million. One of the pressing questions is whether that money will flow into the budget by next Friday.

But that is not enough. We do not know how much Budapest Airport will cost. Sources talk about EUR 3 billion. That means the above-mentioned EUR 480 million is just 1/3rd of the needed money.

The rest may come from the government’s Eurobonds and allegedly a French loan. That would be the third big foreign loan after the Chinese for the Belrade-Budapest railway and the Russian for the Paks NPP expansion.

The question is whether Orbán can get enough money in time. We will know more by next Friday when the deal will probably be announced. Whether Budapest Airport will be better or worse after the French take its management is something for the future.

Read also:

  • Budapest revealed as the seventh-biggest tourist hotspot in Europe – Read more HERE
  • Another astonishing Christmas fair and ice rink opened in Budapest’s downtown

Sorrowful: Popular Hungarian restaurant in Canada closes for good – PHOTOS

Hungarian restaurant in Toronto Black Tulip Restaurant

A famous Hungarian restaurant in Canada’s biggest city, Toronto, will close for good because the owners decided to spend more time with their family. Even though it survived COVID-19 thanks to its enthusiastic patrons, Toronto will soon lose a Hungarian spot.

“It is with a heavy heart that we inform you that we are closing the Black Tulip Hungarian Restaurant“, the Instagram post talking about the closure starts. Black Tulip opened in February 2020, just a couple of weeks before the global coronavirus pandemic broke out.

Even so, the place survived, thanks to the owners’ kindness, the high-quality dishes they served and some loyal patrons who regularly flocked to the restaurant to taste some traditional Hungarian dishes “with sprinkles of North American favourites”, blogto.com wrote.

However, after four years of business, it seems that Gréta and Kornél, the Hungarian couple running the restaurant, decided to close permanently. The menu of the former diner included traditional dishes like goulash soup, stuffed cabbage rolls, chicken paprikash, pork stew, Hungarian-style meatballs, and schnitzel.

Chance to eat traditional Hungarian food even after the closure

“We had to make this hard decision with our family’s future in mind”, the couple continued in their sad Instagram post. They added the last opening day was last Sunday, 29 October.

But not all is lost. “If you are going to miss our Hungarian food, we have started selling our frozen food stock, which you can store in the freezer and enjoy even after a few months”, they added.

“There are so few Hungarian restaurants around. Wishing you the best!”, one of the comment writers said under the post. Here are some photos of their dishes:

 

A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon

 

BlackTulipRestaurant (@blacktuliprestaurant) által megosztott bejegyzés

You could even taste lángos in the Canadian metropolis:

 

A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon

 

BlackTulipRestaurant (@blacktuliprestaurant) által megosztott bejegyzés

Traditional Hungarian pastries:

 

A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon

 

BlackTulipRestaurant (@blacktuliprestaurant) által megosztott bejegyzés

The interior:

 

A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon

 

BlackTulipRestaurant (@blacktuliprestaurant) által megosztott bejegyzés

 

A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon

 

BlackTulipRestaurant (@blacktuliprestaurant) által megosztott bejegyzés

Beginners tourist guide to Canada

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Canada is one of the most fascinating countries in the world, with its different landscapes, different weather, and mixtures of other cultures. It is a destination that will leave any tourist with a different opinion about the country once they leave. And it is doing its part to ensure people around the world are becoming aware of the many benefits this country has to offer. The people who live in Canada enjoy their lives, but now the country is working to show tourists what the country’s people get to enjoy daily.

Below, we are going to take a look at some of the places and items that a tourist should visit in their time in Canada.

Places to go in Canada

Stanley Park – Parks exist in every country, but very few parks are the third largest in North America. This park has been sparking interest in people for many decades. Not only is it surrounded by the English Bay and the Burrard Inlet, but it is also home to an aquarium and a nature center. So the family not only gets to enjoy a walk down its many trails but also gets a little entertainment.

Parliament Hill and Building – While the center of government may not be at the top of many people’s agenda, this parliament building is unique. What makes it unique is the architecture and the history behind it. Suppose you want to learn more about Canadian history, including the fire that burned down the center block. And if you want to take a look at the place where major government decisions get made, then this is the ideal location.

Niagara Falls City, Ontario – When people think of Niagara Falls, they immediately think about America. But what I do not realize is that part of the falls is in Canada as well, and with a simple boat ride or a helicopter tour, you will be able to see both sides of the waterfalls. In addition, there are other tourist attractions the city has to offer. With the waterfall being such a tourist attraction, it only makes sense to build other attractions. So once you finish the tour, you can enjoy hiking, motorbiking, or the local casino. A casino that has been around for close to thirty years and was the second casino to break ground in Ontario. The laws have now changed to allow things like canadian online poker sites for real money to operate in the country, but tourists and locals are still flocking to the physical buildings in their droves because of the overall experience that it offers.

Food to eat in Canada

With how connected the world is, it is easy to find food from your country of origin in another country. But what makes traveling so unique is having the opportunity to try local cuisine. While Canada may not be known for its revolutionary food, this does not mean you cannot find food unique to the people of Canada. So here are a few food items you should be sure to try in the country.

Tourtiere – What makes Canada an interesting state is the diversity within its borders, and this cuisine is a testament to that diversity. This French Canadian cuisine is a meat pie with a twist, and the twist is potatoes get added to the filling. So it’s an explosion of flavor once you get inside the crunchy exterior.

Poutine – If you have decided your diet is no longer critical while on vacation, then the poutine is the cuisine. It starts with regular fries, but things get interesting once you start including the gravy and the cheese curds on top of the fries. This item has a large following in Quebec, but even the local McDonald’s in any part of Canada could be serving this item. And once you eat it, it will feel like you cannot return to eating ordinary fries.

Maple taffy – if you are looking for something tasty and creative, this taffy is what you are looking for. To make this item, first maple syrup is boiled until the point where it is thick, and then this is where things get interesting. Once the syrup is thick, it gets poured over some newly arrived snow. Then, with a stick, you press it down on one end of the syrup and snow and roll it into a ball. This item is found all over the country and is known for not only its comparison to taffy but also its delicious taste, which sets it apart from anything else.

Conclusion

Canada has been in the global conversation for centuries now, and in this time, it has built its own culture, buildings, and tourist attractions. Now, with the integration of the internet and the airplane, what makes this country unique is on display for anyone who wishes to see it. Whether you want to see its precious landscape, sleep in classical houses, or eat food dating back centuries. Canada has a lot to offer for those who are willing to take a look into the Canadian world. It is fast approaching as a significant tourist destination, and this list is only a small preview of why it’s so attractive.

Scandal on Lufthansa’s Budapest flight: Canadian man suffered burns

Lufthansa Budapest

The German airline offered a record-high compensation for a teenage passenger suffering second-degree burns on a Frankfurt-Budapest flight. Here is what happened.

According to portfolio.hu, Lufthansa offered a USD 500 compensation for a teenage passenger who suffered second-degree burns on one of their Budapest flights after a cup of coffee spilt out on board. The Canadian Jack Hayden travelled from Frankfurt to Budapest on the flight. (We wrote HERE when Transatlantic direct flights, including the Toronto-Budapest one, may return to Budapest Airport.)

The accident happened during the flight’s second leg. The first leg was between Toronto and Frankfurt since there is no direct connection between the Hungarian capital and the Canadian city.

The family wants an apology from Lufthansa, not just money

A flight attendant placed a cup of hot coffee at an angle that caused it to spill directly on the teenager’s lower body before the touchdown. Thankfully, the 19-year-old Mr Hayden’s injuries healed by the time he returned home, but his family is still disappointed because of the handling of the incident. They are seeking accountability and the airline’s apology instead of the money.

Simpleflying.com said Lufthansa used a short-haul aircraft, which generally has limited cabin space.

The flight attendant apologised after the incident but continued to serve the hot beverages. Hayden could go to the lavatory only after the service was over. He received no medical help on the plane, only after landing in Budapest. The doctor said he suffered second-degree burns. Due to the pain, he could not even fasten his seatbelt on the plane. Since his injuries were healed before arriving in Toronto, he did not consult a local doctor.

The airline offered the highest compensation available without medical documents.

Budapest Airport CEO shared when American flights will come back: sooner than you would think

Budapest Airport CEO shared when American flights would return

Kam Jandu revealed when the long-expected Transatlantic direct flights would return to Hungary, and they will be back sooner than you would think.

Budapest Airport CEO interview

Mr Jandu gave a 44-minute-long exclusive interview to the International Airport Review (IAR) TV. They discussed his background in aviation, the airport’s recovery, their plans for route development, passenger experience initiatives, their sustainability targets, his challenges and opportunities, as well as his ambitions as the new airport CEO. “In the past four years, we have spent over a quarter of a billion euros improving and enhancing the facilities that we have”, Mr Jandu said.

According to Budflyer, a Hungarian air travel news outlet, Mr Jandu talked about the return of Transatlantic flights to Budapest Airport. We wrote multiple times that the US-Hungary and Canada-Hungary relationships are frozen because of political differences concerning mainly the ongoing Russian invasion and war in Ukraine. The Hungarian government believes the USA and their Western allies should not give weapons to Kyiv. Instead, they should make efforts to reach a ceasefire and sign a peace deal as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the Biden administration thinks PM Orbán follows pro-Russia and pro-China policies by e.g. sitting down with both Putin and Xi Jinpin in Beijing, buying Russian energy or letting Chinese investments come to Hungary.

The US government issued several anti-Hungary measures in the last few months. For example, they unilaterally terminated a crucial agreement avoiding double taxation and limited visa exemptions for Hungarians. Furthermore, there are additional US sanctions on the horizon, impacting even travel rules. We wrote about them HERE.

USA-Hungary direct connection from next year

Kam Jandu remained confident that direct USA-Hungary flights would return by end-2024, and early 2025. He added there were ongoing talks concerning the issue with all big American airlines. He highlighted that the Budapest-New York flight is on the top because it has the highest passenger potential not served in the European Union.

In the final part of the interview, Jandu said experts of American Airlines know all the data concerning the Budapest Airport, and would like to come. However, they face expansion barriers due to their reduced fleet during the COVID-19 pandemic. That is why they cannot return yet. “They will come just when their fleet is ready”, he added.

The fleet expansion of American Airlines is slower than previously expected. The schedule was the following concerning the new Boeing 787s: 11 in 2024, 10 in 2025, and four in 2026. However, that changed to 7 in 2024, four in 2025, four in 2026 and 15 more in the years after 2026.

We wrote HERE that the Hungarian government made a formal bid for the Budapest Airport. They would like to buy it for EUR 4 billion. Another terminal-connected hotel to be built at Budapest Airport, we wrote about that in THIS article.

Fidesz: Hungary and Canada are friends and allies

canada hungary

Canada and Hungary are friends and allies linked by their NATO membership and the sizeable Hungarian diaspora, the head of parliament’s foreign affairs committee said after a visit to Canada on Thursday.

Zsolt Németh headed the committee’s visit to Toronto and Ontario, where they attended events related to the month of Hungarian heritage launched on 1 October.

The two countries are also marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties, Németh noted.

Németh also met the head of the Canadian Senate, the heads of the foreign committees of parliament and senate, and the deputy foreign minister. Talks touched on security policy, NATO, deepening defence cooperation and the defence industry, he said. Hungary is scheduled to buy a radar system from Canada, and the two countries have cooperated in pilot training, he added.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Németh told his partners that Hungary promoted a diplomatic solution to the conflict. Hungary supports Ukraine’s territorial integrity and self-defence, but also emphasises the plight of Transcarpathian Hungarians, he said. Ukraine must restore their rights, he added.

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