“The Polish-Hungarian brotherhood will survive all the scheming of one of Europe’s most pro-war Soros agents,” stated the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade in response to a question from Mandiner. Péter Szijjártó was reacting to the suggestion that Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski would sever diplomatic relations with Hungary.
The news portal reported on Thursday under the headline “Here’s Hungary’s response to the Polish Foreign Minister’s astonishing move”: the Polish news site wPolityce.pl reported that the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Radosław Sikorski, is launching a sharp diplomatic attack against Hungary.
They added that the portal had obtained a letter from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which was addressed to members of the Polish-Hungarian parliamentary group. According to the letter, the Polish ministry suggests cancelling planned meetings with Hungary’s ambassador to Warsaw, as well as rejecting invitations sent by him or the Hungarian embassy, including those to cultural events, Mandiner reported.
Those in Hungary who consistently stand up in defence of the values of democracy, the rule of law and human rights and against corruption are “rewarded in the form of a political campaign of revenge”, the mayor of Budapest said on Wednesday.
In a post on Facebook, Gergely Karácsony said he had received outgoing US Ambassador David Pressman on a farewell visit in his mayoral office. Karácsony said that Pressman had told him at his inaugural visit three years ago that he would most likely be the new target and bearer of the bulk of “propagandists’ attacks” that he as mayor had to face before.
The ambassador, Karácsony said, had been right in his presumption and he then “fulfilled this undertaking as well”. “And I am to thank the ambassador not only for freeing us from a part of those propaganda attacks but also for his consistent … representation of democracy, the rule of law and human rights as well as efforts to fight corruption,” Karácsony said. “David Pressman is a friend and admirer of Hungary,” he added. The mayor presented to the ambassador a painting by contemporary artist drMáriás and a book about Budapest by András Török.
The United States’ decision to put Antal Rogán, the head of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet Office, on a sanctions list is an “unfounded political provocation”, the transport and construction minister said on Wednesday.
Responding to a question at a press conference on another subject, János Lázár said: “The decision of a failed government with only weeks left in power, based on the petty revenge of a failed and unsuccessful US ambassador, cannot be taken seriously.” Further, the statement on systemic corruption in strategic sectors “is a lie, plain and simple”, he said.
Lázár said the move was a crude interference with Hungarian sovereignty and domestic affairs, “unusual and unfair from an ally”, and harmful to US-Hungarian ties. “Neither side of the aisle can dispute that the innocence or guilt of a Hungarian citizen is for the Hungarian state to decide,” he said. Hungary’s government stands by Antal Rogán, Lázár said. The government will contact the Trump administration as soon as he is inaugurated to clear up the issue within a legal procedure, and will take a stand for Rogán “as we would for any other Hungarian citizen”, he said.
He said the sanctions list was “an excellent tool in the US’ hands to put pressure on a country and push through its own views and interests”. Asked whether he had seen proof of the actions that had landed Rogán on the list, Lázár said “I suspect this is more based on suggestions.” He said he had seen no proof of wrongdoing in the case of Ildiko Vida either, a former head of the Hungarian tax and customs authority who was put on a sanctions list in 2014.
The US decision to include Antal Rogán, the minister leading the Hungarian Cabinet Office, on a sanctions list is “terrible and shameful”, a former US ambassador to Hungary told public media on Wednesday.
David Cornstein said the “move by outgoing ambassador David Pressman” was an example of the current US administration’s hostile stance towards Hungary, “right down to the last hour”. While the Biden and Obama administrations had harmed Hungary and the US’s interests by “a hostile approach to Hungary”, the first Trump administration had fostered excellent ties with the country thanks to shared views on governance, immigration and defence priorities, Cornstein said, pointing as an example to the defence cooperation agreement signed by the two countries. He said he expected cooperation to “flourish” during Trump’s second term, and lamented the “lost opportunities of cooperation” under Biden’s tenure.
As we were among the first to report, Antal Rogán, the head of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet, has been placed on the US sanctions list. The Orbán government has conveyed messages through multiple channels to the Biden administration and to the US Ambassador in Budapest, David Pressman, whom the government holds personally responsible.
The Orbán government placed Hungary in a precarious position by openly supporting President Donald Trump in the last US election and interfering in the electoral process of another country. This is particularly notable given that Orbán has repeatedly warned foreign politicians not to meddle in Hungarian elections. When the Biden administration assumed office, Hungarian-American relations were at their lowest point in years. Instead of improving, tensions worsened, with US Ambassador Pressman increasingly engaging in a war of words with the Hungarian government.
The ambassador has persistently criticised the Orbán cabinet, while Orbán has strengthened his ties with Donald Trump. During the most recent campaign, Orbán vocally supported Trump. Now that Trump is president again, the US Ambassador is stepping down and returning home. However, it appears he has one final surprise in store.
Rogán’s inclusion on US sanctions list ‘revenge’ by outgoing US ambassador
On Tuesday, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that the US placing Antal Rogán, the minister heading the Prime Minister’s Cabinet Office, on a sanctions list was “personal revenge” by the outgoing US ambassador, who is leaving Hungary “without honour”. Szijjártó remarked on Facebook that “it is good that the people who will lead the US within a few days will view our country as a friend and not as an enemy”.
Gergely Gulyás, the head of the Prime Minister’s Office, on Tuesday described the United States’ decision to sanction the Prime Minister’s Cabinet Office chief, Antal Rogán, as “a petty act of revenge” by outgoing US Ambassador David Pressman and the Democratic administration.
Speaking to MTI by phone, Gulyás said the decision to place Rogán on a sanctions list was “further proof that the outgoing US administration and ambassador want to exact revenge on Hungary and the Hungarian government for supporting Donald Trump in the election campaign”. He added that Trump had cited the Hungarian government and Orbán as positive examples more frequently than any other foreign politician.
However, Gulyás emphasised that Pressman and the outgoing Democratic administration were now “the past” in terms of Hungary-US relations.
He characterised the move as “a petty and baseless act of revenge that will not remain in effect for more than a few weeks”. He also said it would serve as “a reminder that the United States had an ambassador who, in violation of his official duties and ignoring the Vienna Convention, prioritised ousting the government over fostering good relations with the host country”.
Hungary is reopening its embassy in Damascus, as armed conflict has recently abated and the security situation stabilised in Syria, the minister of foreign affairs and trade said on Facebook on Monday.
Hungarian presence in the country would allow gaining first-hand, credible information about local developments and an opportunity to represent Hungary’s political stance and the interests of Hungarian citizens whenever necessary, Péter Szijjártó said.
Szijjártó said Hungary had a vested interest in the stability and peace of the Middle East and paid special attention to Christian communities living in the region, where it continued providing humanitarian aid. “We continue to raise our voice firmly for respecting the rights of Christian communities….,” he said.
In line with the country’s policies, Hungary’s ambassador to Syria was the first, “and so far the only” Western diplomat to meet the leaders of the two largest Christian denominations to be briefed on how their communities had fared during the events of the past weeks, Szijjártó said. The church leaders had thanked Hungary for its support of Syrian Christians “and for the solidarity, a dwindling commodity among European countries in these uncertain times,” Szijjártó said.
Polish Deputy Minister for European Affairs Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka announced that the Hungarian ambassador to Warsaw, István Íjgyártó, was “not welcome” at the opening event of the Polish EU presidency. The Hungarian FM called that pathetic and childish. The Polish “rudeness” seems to be due not to PM Orbán’s standpoint concerning Ukraine or Russia but to internal Polish political clashes.
Poland, a historic ally and friend of Hungary, took the EU presidency from Hungary on 1 January and organised an opening ceremony yesterday evening in Warsaw. However, though they invited the Hungarian ambassador, István Íjgyártó, they added in a diplomatic note that the Hungarian diplomat was not welcome at the event. Though it is not compulsory, Poland did not invite PM Orbán.
Polish opposition party PiS said the Donald Tusk-lead government did not organise an opening event for the EU leaders because, in that case, the president, Andrzej Duda (PiS) would welcome the guests. Former defence minister and current parliamentary group leader Mariusz Błaszczak said PM Duda’s decisions make Poland ridiculous.
Hungarian Opposition Socialists outraged
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s policies go against European values, the opposition Socialists said on Friday, and called on the Hungarian government to respect democratic principles. The fact that Hungary’s ambassador to Poland was not invited to the opening ceremony of Poland’s European Union presidency was a clear rejection of the Hungarian government’s policies, the party said.
PM Szijjártó: pathetic and childish
The decision of Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski is “pathetic and childish”, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said according to a ministry statement on Friday, commenting on Sikorski’s decision to declare the Hungarian ambassador to Poland persona non grata at the opening event of Poland’s EU presidency.
Sikorski sent a diplomatic note to the ambassador on Friday, saying he was “not welcome” at the event. Earlier on Friday, Polish deputy minister Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka told Polish public media that the ban was linked to Hungary’s decision to grant asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish deputy justice minister.
Polish-Hungarian clash due to former minister Marcin Romanowski’s asylum in Hungary
The Socialists said that the decision was linked to Hungary having offered political asylum to former Polish Deputy Justice Minister Marcin Romanowski who is currently a subject of a procedure on suspicion of corruption in his home country. It added that Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka, the deputy minister in charge of EU affairs had said that Hungary’s decision violated the principles of European solidarity and rule of law.
The Socialists said the incident was another example of how the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was undermining common EU values and cooperation between member states.
As the position of U.S. Ambassador to Hungary potentially changes hands, speculation has arisen about who might step into this influential role. With names like Nancy Brinker, David Cornstein, and Bryan Leib circulating, the next appointment could significantly shape U.S.–Hungarian relations. Here’s a closer look at the three candidates reportedly under consideration.
Nancy Brinker: Experienced diplomat and philanthropist
Nancy Brinker, 78, is no stranger to Hungary, having served as U.S. Ambassador in Budapest from 2001 to 2003 during George W. Bush’s presidency. Renowned for her philanthropic efforts, Brinker championed causes like cancer awareness, initiating events such as the annual Pink Ribbon Walk across Budapest’s Chain Bridge, which remains a tradition, Hungarian Conservative writes. She also tackled issues like labour exploitation, and organising conferences with regional health leaders.
For her contributions to bilateral relations and charitable initiatives, Brinker was awarded Hungary’s Order of Merit. Beyond her time in Hungary, she served as the U.S. Chief of Protocol and was named a World Health Organisation Goodwill Ambassador for Cancer Control. Brinker’s potential return as ambassador would bring a seasoned and humanitarian-focused approach to the role.
David Cornstein: A strong ally of Hungary
David Cornstein, 86, held the ambassadorial post from 2018 to 2020 during Donald Trump’s presidency. Known for his supportive stance toward Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government, Cornstein frequently praised Hungary’s migration policies and economic achievements. His tenure stood in contrast to more critical approaches by other U.S. diplomats, emphasising cooperation and understanding.
Even after leaving the position, Cornstein remained an advocate for Hungary, publishing articles highlighting the country’s affordability and cultural appeal, according to Hungarian Conservative. His alignment with Orbán’s perspectives, including shared views on the war in Ukraine, signals that his reappointment could reinforce a close U.S.–Hungary partnership under a Trump-led administration.
Bryan Leib: A fresh perspective
At 38, Bryan Leib represents a younger generation of diplomatic candidates. Although he hasn’t served as an ambassador, Leib is deeply engaged with Hungary through his role at the conservative Budapest-based Centre for Fundamental Rights. A former Congressional candidate from Florida, Leib has been a vocal critic of outgoing Ambassador David Pressman and an advocate for strengthening U.S.–Hungary ties.
Leib’s candidacy reflects his ambition and commitment to bilateral relations. His social media activity often focuses on countering criticisms of Hungary’s government and promoting collaboration. While his lack of ambassadorial experience may be seen as a drawback, his fresh perspective and enthusiasm could appeal to those seeking a dynamic new voice in diplomacy.
Leib wrote about his Hungarian heritage in one of his recent posts:
“Fun fact for all of my Hungarian friends; On my mother’s side (Klein), my entire family is from Hungary. My great grandfather Sigmund Klein was from Munkacz. After they came to the United States, my family played a critical role in supporting the Hungarian community in the Philadelphia region (my birthplace). My great grandfather was the founder and president of Pannonia Beneficial Association, which helped newly-arrived Hungarians to adjust to the United States by helping find housing and jobs for them while keeping their Hungarian culture alive. I am very proud of my great grandfather and my Hungarian heritage.”
The current US ambassador was recalled due to the election but has not stopped criticising the Hungarian government. One of the possible next US ambassadors, Bryan E. Leib, sent a clear message to his predecessor.
The Biden administration’s mission in Hungary is about to expire for David Pressman, who has had numerous conflicts with the Hungarian government. The ambassador has been outspoken and blunt in his criticism of Orbán. These criticisms included the excellent relationship with aggressor Russia, Beijing’s main alliance with Budapest in the EU, and the obstruction of arms aid for Ukraine’s defence.
Returned to Memento Park today – each time I have visited, from the mid-90s to today, I am struck not only by the mementos of authoritarianism it presents but by its stark reminder of what it takes to stand up for dignity and democracy and the unstoppable spirit of Hungarians to be free from tyranny and corruption.
The succession is unclear, but according to government press reports, Republican politician Bryan E. Leib will replace Pressman as ambassador to Budapest. The former US candidate, foreign policy analyst, and senior fellow at the Center for Fundamental Rights most recently spoke officially at the Pro Israel conference in Budapest on 1 October and met with Hungarian Foreign Ministry State Secretary Péter Sztáray.
Leib has responded to Pressman’s criticisms on several occasions recently, and has now sent him a new message regarding his post on Memento Park:
The Hungarians have already been freed from tyranny. David, please stop this nonsense. You have done a lot of damage to the US-Hungarian relationship, but we will make it right on 20 January 2025,” Leib wrote.
In a recent interview with The European Conservative, he said, “Pressman’s behaviour was excessively unprofessional and he has shamed us as Americans. Please allow me to apologise for this behaviour on behalf of the American people. He was simply an activist, not a diplomat.”
“When we look at the impact of the last election, of course the main beneficiaries of President Trump’s return to the White House will be the American people, but our allies around the world will also benefit, while our enemies will be filled with fear of what is to come. When people ask me which countries stand to benefit most from another 4 years of President Trump, I always answer Israel and Hungary. And as we have already alluded to, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has done a wonderful job of building a European conservative movement of like-minded friends and allies. I also believe that this is a special opportunity for the Hungarian Prime Minister to become a major point of reference in the political landscape in Europe. He will certainly enjoy the unfailing support of President-elect Trump. I think that the next four years will be really serious and exciting for the US-Hungarian alliance. For example, I would like to see direct flights between the two countries, and maybe we can achieve that.”
Other potential candidates for the US ambassadorship to Budapest
Other potential candidates for the ambassadorship to Budapest, besides Lieb, include Nancy Brinker and David Cornstein, the first ambassador under the Trump administration.
The European Union “has set the world record in hypocrisy” on the matter of Georgia, but Hungary and Slovakia have vetoed proposed sanctions against certain law enforcement leaders of the country, Péter Szijjártó, the minister of foreign affairs and trade, said in Brussels on Monday.
Szijjártó told a press conference after a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council that the EU “has Georgia in its crosshairs” because a “pro-peace, patriotic, conservative party” had won the elections, rather than liberal forces. According to a ministry statement, Szijjártó rejected the EU’s “brutal political attack”, saying that the Georgian Dream party had governed for 12 years, “during which the average income has tripled and GDP and the volume of external investments have doubled.” The ruling party in Georgia had performed well and earned the trust of voters, he said. “Nobody in Brussels has the right to question the will of the Georgian people.” The minister said the reports of police brutality at demonstrations in Tbilisi were “one-sided”, and there had been “violent elements” among the demonstrators as well.
According to his Georgian counterpart, some 40 police officers were injured as a result, he said.
The EU “can’t impose sanctions on a country because they decided to push back accession talks to 2028,” he said.
“There was a puffed-up, resentful, frustrated approach to Georgia, which I refused to support.” Regarding the situation in Syria, Szijjártó said the country must not be allowed to become a hotbed of terrorism or extremist ideologies, and migration waves in the direction of Europe must be prevented. Further, the persecution of Christians must be stopped, he added.
“Hungary continues to provide aid for Christian communities so they can stay in their homeland and preserve their rights … So far we have provided humanitarian support worth some 30 million euros for Syrian communities, and we will continue to do so,” Szijjártó said.
“Not even the approaching Christmas holidays can dampen the warlike mood in Brussels,” the foreign minister said on Facebook on Monday.
Péter Szijjártó posted his remarks ahead of the last meeting of his European Union counterparts in Brussels this year, saying proposals on the agenda for the meeting reflected that “the majority still does not see the new realities”. “While an opportunity for achieving a ceasefire and exchanging prisoners of war has been tabled, they still want to reallocate over 6 billion euros for weapons to Ukraine,” Szijjártó said.
“They are pressing Ukraine to send 18-year-old boys to the front, and sanction Georgian officials just because Georgian voters dared to elect a sovereigntist government,” Szijjártó said. The minister said he anticipated “a great fight” at the meeting, but added that “the Hungarian government insists on its pro-peace stance: Ukraine calls for a ceasefire rather than more weapons.”
Staff at Hungary’s embassy in Paris have received a life threat in an email, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó said on Facebook on Saturday, adding that French police were searching the premises at the time of his post.
The sender of the email had attached the image of a home-made bomb, but such a device has not yet been discovered, Szijjártósaid.
Szijjártó said the email “is believed to have arrived from a neighbouring country,” adding that the Hungarian secret services were also investigating the case.
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Thanks to a recently signed Austrian-Hungarian agreement, ambulances from Austria may now assist Hungarian patients if they can reach the emergency site faster than Hungarian rescue teams. This development was reported by ORF’s Hungarian-language news site.
Cross-border cooperation for better emergency care
The agreement, finalised during the summer and approved by the Hungarian Parliament in November, aims to improve emergency services along the Austrian-Hungarian border, ORF reported. It allows rescue dispatchers in Burgenland and western Hungary to request mutual assistance when needed. This is particularly beneficial in cases where an Austrian ambulance can respond faster to an emergency in Hungary or if the closest hospital to a critically ill patient is located across the border.
The cooperation will also extend to air rescue services, ensuring that severe cases, including accidents and critical illnesses, can receive timely and effective treatment. Both countries expect this collaboration to enhance safety and healthcare access for patients in border regions.
Benefits for both nations
The agreement is not one-sided. If an Austrian resident suffers an accident in Hungary, local authorities can call for Austrian medical services to transport the patient to a hospital in Austria. The personnel involved in these cross-border operations will have equal rights and responsibilities as their counterparts in the host country.
This arrangement ensures that emergency responders can work seamlessly, overcoming bureaucratic barriers that might otherwise delay critical care. It is designed to save time and lives in situations where every second counts.
Implementation details to follow
Further specifics of this cross-border agreement will be clarified in an upcoming cooperation contract between Burgenland’s provincial leader and Hungary’s Minister of the Interior, Telex wrote based on ORF’s report. This document will outline the exact rules for mobilising ambulances and utilising hospitals in the neighbouring country. It will also establish communication protocols between Austrian and Hungarian rescue dispatch centres, ensuring that the system operates smoothly and efficiently.
This groundbreaking collaboration marks a significant step toward integrated emergency care in the region, offering faster and safer solutions for patients on both sides of the Austrian-Hungarian border.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is scheduled to have talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara on Thursday before attending the closing event of the Hungarian-Turkish cultural season, the PM’s press chief said.
Erdoğan and Orbán will discuss current international affairs, including the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, chances of peace, and bilateral matters, Bertalan Havasi said in a statement.
Hungary and Turkiye elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership in late 2023, he noted, adding that cooperation had quickly developed since.
Havasi added that more than 150 events have been organised in the two countries as part of the Hungarian-Turkish cultural season.
It is unprecedented for an American president to ask for advice from the Hungarian prime minister about a global armed conflict. According to the insiders of Szabad Európa, Trump has talked with PM Orbán on the phone multiple times since his reelection on 5 November about the situation in Ukraine and asked for Orbán’s opinion about how the war in Ukraine should be ended ASAP.
Long was to establish a friendship between Orbán and Trump
PM Orbán was the first of the world’s acting presidents and prime ministers to endorse Trump as a presidential candidate in the summer of 2015. Ever since, Hungarian diplomacy has tried to improve the personal relationship between Trump and Orbán, and it seems they were successful.
During Trump’s first presidency, the American president did not know who Orbán was, and, consequently, the Hungarian prime minister received an invitation to Washington only in 2019. The situation has changed a lot since then.
Trump did not know in 2019 who exactly Orbán was. Photo: Facebook.com/orbanviktor
The Orbán cabinet made huge efforts to attract Trumpist Republicans by e.g. organising the CPAC in Budapest, which costs a fortune for everybody, so not everybody can afford it. Moreover, they have been saying from the start that Trump could bring peace to Ukraine and that had Trump ruled the White House, Putin would not have attacked because the Russian president is afraid of the American entrepreneur and showman.
The relationship between the two leaders developed quickly, and Trump regularly praised Orbán and his policies in his speeches during the campaign. Despite several Republican leaders having doubts about Orbán, media reports agree that the two strongmen’s relations are strong.
Trump called only Orbán and Netanyahu
Therefore, it is not surprising that Trump called Orbán after his victory. The only other leader receiving that “gift” was Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. According to an informant of Szabad Európa, the “others had to queue”. The first talk between Trump and Orbán was ceremonial but more followed.
Mar-a-Lago calls Budapest, Orbán wrote:
According to Szabad Európa’s insiders, Trump is deeply interested in Orbán’s opinion about Russia’s capacity to continue the war, how he measured the durability of Putin’s system and what milestones he would regard as important for a settlement.
Orbán expressed his views on that issue multiple times. He said Russia has more reserves than Ukraine, consequently, Putin can continue the war as long as he feels, but Ukraine solely depends on Western donors. Therefore, Kyiv needs a ceasefire as soon as possible. Trump seems to be on the same page concerning Ukraine.
Analysts believe Trump would like to score some spectacular successes after his inauguration, and one could be Ukraine. It seems he may have other allies in Europe. There is a chance that Romania’s new president will be Călin Georgescu, who hailed Putin several times. In Czechia, Andrej Babiš may return, who was labelled a pro-peace politician by Orbán. In Germany, early elections will decide the next government, while France’s Barnier government is also shaking.
Putin and Orbán in July in Moscow. Photo: FB/Orbán
Orbán prepares for another peace mission
Insiders say Orbán is preparing for another peace mission. He carried out the first “mission” in early July when he took the EU presidency. He talked with Putin, Xi, Zelensky and Trump then. Now, he seems to be doing that tour again. Szabad Európa writes that the leaders are flexible enough to receive the Hungarian prime minister even on short notice.
Botond Feledy, a foreign affairs expert, told Szabad Európa that he might deliver Trump’s message to the Russian, Ukrainian and Chinese leaders.
Orbán and Xi in July. Photo: FB/Orbán
The Hungarian media outlet wrote that Hungary’s problems will not be among Trump’s primary concerns after January. However, the Hungarian government expects to welcome a new American ambassador next autumn. Based on reports, several volunteers have first-hand experience with Hungarian hospitality from the Budapest CPACs.
New ambassador may arrive in Budapest in autumn
Concerning practicalities, the two countries may agree on a new concord to avoid double taxation and visa-free travel to the USA for Hungarian citizens born abroad. Furthermore, Hungary would like to host Trump for an official visit soon. The Orbán administration also hopes he will not launch a tax war against China because that would harm the Hungarian government through Chinese investments like the BYD in Szeged.
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In cooperation with embassies of Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and Norway: Embassy of Palestine in Hungary commemorates the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.
The Embassy of the State of Palestine in Hungary, in collaboration with the embassies of Norway, Slovenia, Spain, and Ireland, marked the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People with a special event at the Palestine Residence in Budapest.
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
The gathering, attended by diplomats and international representatives, underscored the global commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and highlighted efforts to expand recognition of the State of Palestine. The event began with a performance of the Palestinian national anthem by Tunisian artist Mohamed Alloul, followed by a speech from Dr. Fadi Elhusseini, Ambassador of Palestine to Hungary.
Ambassador Elhusseini stressed that solidarity with the Palestinian cause must go beyond rhetoric, calling for tangible action to end the genocide and the occupation. He urged those who didn’t to recognize Palestine, noting that this recognition is critical to achieving stability and a just resolution to the conflict. He emphasized that Palestine has existed since the dawn of time and will remain till the end of time.
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Elhusseini said that Palestine is under occupation and that negotiations are meant to tackle future arrangements, including borders, which the ambassador considered the key to the solution. The ambassador also highlighted the ongoing legal developments, including these at the International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice, and the United Nations General Assembly’s calls for an end to the occupation. Elhusseini concluded by reaffirming the resilience of the Palestinian people, vowing that they would continue to fight for justice, freedom, and a free Palestine.
The Palestinian ambassador appreciated the great turnout to participate from representatives of the countries present, which embodies a message of support for the Palestinian people in all its spectrums.
Archbishop Michael W. Banach, Apostolic Nunciature and dean of diplomatic corps. Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Diplomats from several countries shared their solidarity with the Palestinian cause, including:
Archbishop Michael W. Banach, Apostolic Nunciature and dean of diplomatic corps
Ambassador Karima Kabbaj of Morocco, Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps
Ambassador Alfonso Dastis of Spain
Ambassador Dr. Marjan CENCEN of Slovenia
On behalf of Africa, Ambassador Mr. Gangumzi TSENGIWE of South Africa
Ambassador Ranger Almqvist of Ireland
On behalf of Latin America, Ambassador Ignacio RUIZ PEREA of Colombia
Chargé d’Affaires Sten Iversen of Norway
On behalf of Asua, Chargé d’Affaires Ivani Mahdiat Sofiana of Indonesia
Ambassador Ms. Susan Kleebank of Brasil
Olive oil and za’atar were presented to the participants to emphasize the importance of Palestinian identity and culture.
Here are some more photos:
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
Photo: Press release/Embassy of Palestine in Hungary
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On 24 November, the Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024, organised by the Diplomatic Spouses of Budapest (DSB), was a remarkable and heartwarming event held at Bálna Budapest. The event brought together representatives from 45 countries and showcased a blend of global cultures, cuisines, and traditions. This unique initiative aimed to support charitable causes, with proceeds from the event donated to various charity organisations.
The first speaker was the DSB President, Natasha Asif (Pakistan), who welcomed the guests and thanked them for all the help they had received in arranging the venue and the event.
The 13th Diplomatic Charity Fair at Bálna Budapest was graced by distinguished speakers, including Michael Wallace Banach, Apostolic Nuncio to Hungary, and Szilvia Szijjártó-Nagy, wife of Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Both speeches emphasised the event’s core values of unity and generosity. They highlighted how the fair exemplified the collective power of nations coming together to support charitable causes, showcasing the shared desire to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Photo: MTI
Photo: MTI
Highlights of the Diplomatic Charity Fair
Souvenir market
One of the central attractions of the event was the vibrant souvenir market. Countries displayed and sold various traditional items, including handicrafts, jewellery, textiles, and artwork. The stalls were decorated to reflect the cultural heritage of each country, providing attendees with an immersive and colourful shopping experience. The funds raised through souvenir sales were entirely dedicated to charity.
A separate hall was dedicated to the food section, where participating countries showcased their local cuisines. Guests had the opportunity to savour various authentic dishes, ranging from savoury snacks to sweet treats. The culinary diversity on display allowed visitors to explore the world through taste, making it a memorable experience. Proceeds from food sales were also contributed to charitable causes.
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
Several countries staged cultural performances that added to the festive atmosphere. These performances included traditional dances, music, and other art forms, offering attendees a glimpse into the rich cultural heritages of participating nations. The performances were a highlight of the event, drawing large crowds and enthusiastic applause.
Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 Budapest Hungary. Photo: Daily News Hungary
The Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 was exceptionally well-organised, a testament to the efforts of the Diplomatic Spouses of Budapest. The venue’s layout ensured smooth navigation between the souvenir market, food hall, and performance stage. The event attracted a large crowd, reflecting the widespread interest and support for the charitable cause.
The Diplomatic Charity Fair 2024 was more than just a cultural event; it celebrated global unity and compassion. By combining the sale of souvenirs, food, and artistic performances, the fair created an engaging platform for cultural exchange and fundraising. The generosity of the participants and attendees has undoubtedly significantly impacted the supported charity organisations, making this event a true success.
With its lively atmosphere and noble purpose, the fair has set a high standard for future editions and reaffirmed the importance of international collaboration for a greater cause.
As we wrote earlier, the Diplomatic Charity Fair in Budapest last year was also a huge success, find photos here!
US President-elect Donald Trump knows Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky well and if he reaches out to them, the Russian and the Ukrainian presidents will both show respect towards the United States, the former US ambassador to Hungary said in an interview with public television broadcast on Wednesday evening.
Referring to Trump’s pledge towards peace in Ukraine, David Cornstein said Zelensky was fully aware that “the entire ammunition is coming from the United States” which was why he said it would be worth listening to Trump’s advice.
Ending the war is also in the interest of central Europe, and a priority issue for Trump, Cornstein said. No country has the right to invade another independent state, said the former ambassador, adding that “it is unacceptable”.
He noted that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán had made efforts right from the beginning to have the warring sides sit down for talks, adding that the whole world should have followed suit.
Speaking about the close ties between Orbán and Trump, Cornstein said both of them “are very strong leaders governing along the same principles”. Also, they fully agree on cardinal issues such as migration, the importance of family and the economy, as well as the state’s role in those ares, he added.
The former ambassador said that under the Biden administration there had not been any dialogue between the US ambassador and the Hungarian government. “But, if invited, Trump would most certainly pay a visit to Hungary,” he said.
