INTERVIEW

CNN presents Wizz Air’s multipass innovation, asks CEO whether Wizz will go to the USA

Quest means business Wizz Air CEO

“Quest means business” – a phenomenon in the business world and Richard Quest is now in Budapest, Hungary. Of course, he did several interviews, including an exciting piece with József Váradi, the CEO of the Hungarian low-cost airline, Wizz Air.

Quest asked first about Wizz Air’s brand new service, the multipass allowing passengers to travel with Wizz multiple times just like it happens when you buy a metro season ticket. Mr József Váradi said that they were not short of passengers. Instead, they respect the people who choose them and would like to reward their loyalty with the multipass opportunity.

About questions concerning the difficulties of the operation environment, Váradi acknowledged that strikes do not do good for the business. But he added that they “learnt their lessons”. They invested hundreds of millions of dollars to improve resilience, “build more buffers, more spares, more slacks.” There may be delays even this summer, but they will not have to cancel flights.

Quest asked which direction Wizz Air plans to expand. India or the USA? Váradi said they do not want to go to the States and said nothing about moving to India. But he highlighted that currently, their maximum flight time is six hours. In 2024, that will increase to 8 hours. Mr Váradi added that one should look on the map between London and Abu Dhabi, Wizz Air’s two main bases and will find that there are still a lot of dots to connect in that area.

Concerning aircraft, he said they have 180 now, and that fleet will grow above 500 soon because they ordered 360 Airbus planes. He said Wizz Air was profitable and growing, and their capacity was the most economical and sustainable.

Interview with Anthony Radev, President of Corvinus about model-changing, foreign students and new campus

Interview with Anthony Radev, President of Corvinus

We interviewed the President of Corvinus University, Anthony Radev:

Daily News Hungary (DNH): Thank you for accepting the invitation to be interviewed. You are the president of Corvinus University, but there is also a foundation run by a president and then there is the rector of the university. Could you give us a little insight into each person’s individual role?

Anthony Radev: The foundation as operator is responsible for the institutional and financial functioning of the University. The Charter issues the Charter Document of the University, adopts its Organisational and Operational Regulations, Institutional Development Plan, budget and financial report, as well as makes proposals to the President of the Republic regarding the Rector of the University and appoints the President and Chancellor of the University. The operator shall perform its duties related to the functioning of the University in cooperation with the University and its citizens, considering in particular the Senate and the other bodies of the University.

The University is led by the Presidential Board of the Board of Trustees, and it is the decision-preparing, opinion-forming, strategy-making body of the University. It consists of three main positions: the Rector, the President and the Chancellor. The rector is responsible for the educational and scientific research portfolio, leads the academic work at the highest level. The Chancellor is responsible for the university’s financial stability, procurement and infrastructure. My position, the President of the University is responsible for the strategic management, the leading the institutional work organization of the University, and such strategic units as HR, international relations, accreditations, law and communication.

DNH: Corvinus was the first model-changing university in Hungary. How would you assess the change?

Anthony Radev: For Corvinus as the pioneer in model-changing, it is a great success – the first cycle of renewal is completed. We have the dominant market position, and we have massive results in internationalisation of education and international visibility. We have significantly increased the number of our English programs. The number of applicants for English language courses has increased by almost 50 percent. We tripled the number of research publications in the most prestigious scholarly journals. We were the first in Hungary to introduce the academic career model: with a predictable career- and quality-focused performance.

As we gained a strong, reliable budget and self-sustainability, we are building on operational excellence and we spend an average of HUF 2-3 billion per year on investments and improvements, i. e. a unique education and innovation centre in the Ménesi Street Campus. We have increased the base salary by an average of more than 70 percent, almost tripled the non-wage benefits and introduced a performance-related annual bonus. This year the average salary growth is an impressive 15-17%.

We have established the Ethics, Responsibility and Sustainability Hub (ERS Hub) to support the alignment of the University’s ethics, social responsibility and sustainability initiatives and have evolved sustainability a priority in our investments and operations. We have digitized student administration, so most processes can be initiated online. We have launched the My Corvinus app, which was 2021’s App of the Year.

We do not lean back seeing our results, we continue looking for the best solutions and best practices in each area that is relevant for Corvinus. 

DNH: What international accreditations demonstrate best Corvinus’ outstanding achievements? How do you score in international university rankings?

Anthony Radev: The Corvinus University of Budapest is the only university in Hungary in the field of economic sciences that has two international accreditations at institutional level: AMBA, and AACSB.  We gained the AACSB accreditation (Association for Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) in 2022, which may place Corvinus among the top 900 business schools in the world. The AMBA reflects the quality of our MBA programs as it is the international accreditation of the Association of the MBA programs. In addition, we obtained several international accreditations for programs: EFMD Accredited, BSIS Label, EAPAA, the newest one is the ACCA which is a prestigious professional recognition of our MA accounting.

DNH: Why do prospective students choose Corvinus? What differentiates Corvinus from other universities and in what fields does it stand out particularly?

Anthony Radev: In a nutshell, Corvinus is Hungary’s most eminent university in the fields of economic and social science trainings. Our medium-term objective is to become one of the best institutions of higher education in Central Europe, not only within the country. We prefer quality over quantity, we offer international professional environment with internationally recognised teachers and a vivid social student life, i. e. we have the oldest student organization founded more than 50 years ago, the Studium Generale where the members voluntarily prepare several thousand high school students to the admission exams.

And of course, we know, money talks:  a Corvinus student with a degree in economics can expect to earn a total net salary of HUF 340 million over a full career path, which is HUF 110 million more than the national average for graduates in the same field. The source of the monetary advantage lies not only in the knowledge acquired, but also in the skills and competences that our students acquire here. According to our recently gained BSIS label, The financial impact of the activity of Corvinus University is over HUF 170 billion per year. No other Hungarian university in economic fields undertook such an examination. The label also pointed out that the majority of senior managers at large companies listed on the Hungarian stock exchange are the graduates of this University, so the Corvinus offers excellent career perspectives.

DNH: What further developments does Corvinus aim to pursue in the future? Which are the areas that need improvement in order to reach an even higher international rating?

Anthony Radev: As I mentioned before, our medium-term objective is to become one of the leading institutions of higher education in Central Europe, not only within the country. We want to open the doors even wider to international students and teachers and integrate them with the Hungarian community. We pursue excellence, both in teaching and researching, so we expect to grow our potential in scientific publications, and we want to improve our teacher-student ratio in order to focus better on the development of our students.

We aim to be more transparent and operate in a more sustainable way, and permanently continue to develop ourselves. In these months we are preparing the strategy for the next three years, and we want to bottom-up channel all the valuable initiatives. 

DNH: Can you share some details about the upcoming new campus?

Anthony Radev: As part of the complex renewal of Corvinus University of Budapest – digital, infrastructural and educational – the institution will be equipped with a technology-intensive, inspiringly future-oriented and sustainability-oriented building complex.

Between 600 and 700 students will be able to work on the Campus at the same time, with all the educational and social spaces dedicated to creative collaboration. The building will house the University’s Entrepreneurship Incubation Programme and the Data Space, home to innovative data science projects.

Corvinus University
Source: Corvinus University

There will be 3100 m2 for education, 2350 m2 for sports, dormitory places for 180 students, and a huge park in 11.000 m2. The renewable building complex will also meet Leed Gold’s stringent sustainability certification criteria, as well as AA+, the highest energy efficiency rating, for the first time in a higher education investment in Hungary. The Campus will have an energy system unique in Hungary, using the latest thermal insulation technologies and providing energy supply through solar panels and ground-source solar probes.

DNH: How many foreign students are currently enrolled at Corvinus? What is the number of foreign lecturers? I suppose that the Stipendium Hungaricum and Erasmus are decisive in terms of the number of foreign students.

Anthony Radev: Currently, we have 11.000 students and 20% of them are from abroad. Ten years ago, the ratio was only 10%. And yes, we are a popular destination for students both who gained the Stipendium Hungaricum and the ones who participate in the Erasmus program, several hundred young foreign people come to our university every year. Corvinus is among the Hungarian universities that have made the most of the Erasmus+ program, with around 500 students per academic year.

 

DNH: Moving on to another subject… You are known to hold several major positions in companies or associations. Can you share us some details about these responsibilities? How do you juggle the heavy workload?

Anthony Radev: My main task is to be the President of Corvinus. The other responsibilities do not require a full-time job, and these few hours per week can be inserted in my schedule. I have excellent collegues who are experts in their profession, which makes the work much easier for me. 

DNH: I know that you have three nationalities. Can you tell us what these are?
Anthony Radev: I was born in Bulgaria, studied and moved to Hungary, later on professionally settled in Germany.

DNH: This question concerns Anthony Radev, a private individual. Can you tell us a bit about your family background? How do you spend your free time? Do you have any favourite pastime or something that you are really passionate about?

Anthony Radev: I was born into a working family. Usually with the 3 F – Family, friends and football. I had a great childhood, fantastic young years, very satisfying midlife.

DNH: I am sure you have travelled a lot before. Which three destinations left the biggest impact on you and why?

Anthony Radev: I’ve been to more than 70 countries in the world, I do not regret any one of those, to do a favorite list would be unfair, because I respect them all.

DNH: Let’s not leave out Hungarian gastronomy either. If you could order anything right now, what would be your instant pick for starter, main course and dessert?

Anthony Radev: Jókai bean soup (Jókai bableves), stuffed cabbage (töltött káposzta), creamy dumplings (túrógombóc).

Interview with Tamara Liluashvili, Georgia’s Ambassador in Budapest, on diplomacy, tourism and more

Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary

We interviewed H.E. Tamara Liluashvili, Ambassador of Georgia to Hungary. The newly appointed ambassador has been very active from the very first moment, having attended several meetings. We talked about Georgian-Hungarian relations, tourism and other interesting topics.

Daily News Hungary (DNH): First, please tell us a bit about yourself and your family. How can you manage family life alongside your career?

Ambassador Liluashvili: I am a lucky mother of two very active children, Alexander (9) and Anastasia (6). They enjoy traveling and learning about different countries and cultures. My son is a great fan of football and a talented player as well. My daughter is a gymnast. Due to my hectic schedule, I often have to sacrifice quality time with my children, but I try to have them be involved in my work so that we still get to spend some time together.  We like organise and participate in different Georgian cultural and country promotional events. My son really enjoys meetings with different Country Presidents. He has a vast collection of photographs of different presidents. My children were very impressed when they met President Novák, another busy mum, and realised that there are mothers even busier than myself, fulfilling important positions.

My family is very supportive of my work and they see how much I love and enjoy what I do.  My mother, who has travelled with me and has been my biggest support, often gives me a helping hand with my children. She is the one who keeps the Georgian traditions alive in our family and teaches the children their native language and customs.

Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary
Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary

DNH: Your previous ambassadorship was to Bulgaria. How did you build your career prior to that?

Ambassador Liluashvili: I spent 4 wonderful and fascinating years in Bulgaria. It was my first posting as a high-ranking diplomat.  Prior to that, I was part of the Ministry of Economy where I took different high-level positions in investment-related fields. I worked on country promotional campaigns and promoted Georgia for investment opportunities. I spent some time in the Georgian business field and, thus, I acquired a diverse set of skills and knowledge.

DNH: Although you have only been in Budapest for a short time, what is your impression of Hungary and Hungarians?

Ambassador Liluashvili: I have been here barely 2 months and am already under the spell of this beautiful city and all that it has to offer. I love the fact that it’s family-friendly, there is so much for children to do and enjoy. I am a big fan of music, dance and theatre. So far, I’ve had a chance to see a ballet performance and attend a classical music concert. I feel very welcomed in Hungary, everyone I have met is very positive and supportive of Georgia, all willing to share their experience and know-how in different areas and give advice when needed.

DNH: I see you are a very active ambassador, do you have a busy schedule? How have the last few weeks been for you?

Ambassador Liluashvili: I thrive on excitement and being busy is something I find fulfilling. To be occupied with things you love is even more rewarding. As an Ambassador, I aim to reach all the aspects of our relations on all levels. My objective is to tell the Georgian story and bring the Georgian culture and all that we are proud of to Hungary. It involves lots of planning and meeting with different entities and local business representatives. Attending academic circles is also important so that I can properly plan and fulfill my duties here.

DNH: I think that Georgian-Hungarian government relations are very strong. What kind of meetings have you had recently and what kind of highlights are you expecting in the near future?

Ambassador Liluashvili: I have a very dynamic agenda for this year, our bilateral relations with Hungary are on the highest level, we’ve had many exchanges in different fields, and we are in the process of identifying specific projects that could be of interest to both side in the field of agriculture, in business and other aspects. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting ministers and undersecretaries in different departments.  In the near future, we will welcome Georgian ministers visiting Hungary and also Georgia will be hosting Hungarian ministers and high officials.

DNH: Let’s talk about tourism. What does the Georgian tourism sector have to offer to Hungarian visitors?

Ambassador Liluashvili: Georgia is the land of infinite possibilities, it’s a land of contrasts at the crossroads of East and West. From the ancient architecture of old towns and the stone towers of Svaneti to the beaches and nightlife of the Black Sea coast, there is something inspiring and exciting for everyone. Snow-covered Caucasus mountains for skiers, eco-tourism for hikers, food and wine for gastro lovers; Georgia has it all. The country has a unique welcoming culture which explains its world-famous hospitality. With its own ancient language and alphabet, Georgia will surprise and delight every guest.

Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary
Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary

DNH: There is a direct flight from Budapest to Kutaisi. Is it possible that there will be an expansion of flights to other cities?

Ambassador Liluashvili: Budapest-Kutaisi direct flight has been very popular among tourists and travelers. We hope that we can propose another destination to the airlines which is Batumi, the capital of the Adjara region, near the Black Sea. Especially for Hungarian tourists, I believe this region will be very attractive. I see two types of Hungarian tourists who will be stunned by Georgia: young travellers who are eager to discover new places and tourists who remember Georgia from the old days and are ready to see Modern Georgia. So the interest is there and now the airlines need to recognise this.

DNH: The two countries also nurture important economic relations. What are the main products that Hungarian companies can sell in Georgia? And what Georgian products can Hungarians find in domestic shops?

Ambassador Liluashvili: The economic ties between our countries are due to strengthen even more in the future. There is tremendous potential in the agriculture field, let it be seed production or beekeeping. There is great partnership potential between Georgian and Hungarian companies to satisfy the demands of different agricultural products in high volumes. This is now the time for both parties to explore all the opportunities that each offers. Georgia’s free trade regimes can be beneficial for Hungarian companies, while Hungary’s market can be attractive for Georgian export companies. So, it’s high time to identify and set clear and specific projects.

DNH: Georgian gastronomy has a particularly good reputation in Hungary, there are several renowned restaurants in Budapest. What is the secret of your success?

Ambassador Liluashvili: Yes indeed, there are several Georgian Restaurants in Budapest with authentic Georgian food. It goes without saying that Georgian food should be paired with Georgian wine, which is also world-renowned. Georgians have this tradition of Supra, a feast of foods from all the regions of Georgia. A traditional feast, the supra is a time-honoured event that consists of a wide variety of traditional Georgian food and wine, singing, storytelling and toasts. The supra is led by Tamada, the toastmaster who is the one responsible for entertaining guests and making them try wine and sample all dishes. It’s a very fun gathering. With Georgian cuisine, you’re at the crossroads of the culinary world. Where East meets West, mountains meet sea, traditions meet innovation.  Georgian wines date back to 8,000 years. The traditional qvevri (clay vessels buried underground) wines are the most popular styles. Wine is an important part of everyday life and local culture in Georgia. So when you visit a Georgian restaurant, traditions come right to your table.

DNH: Speaking of gastronomy, how do you like Hungarian cuisine?

Ambassador Liluashvili: I very much enjoy Hungarian cuisine, especially the wines. Hungarian cuisine is a delicious and surprising discovery for me. I see an extravaganza of flavours in the local dishes. And just like Georgian, Hungarian cuisine also tells the country’s history.

I hope I’ll have the chance to visit many regions and discover the typical dishes of each.

Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary
Tamara Liluashvili, Georgian ambassador to Hungary

DNH: I’m sure there will be several major events organised by the embassy this year. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the future?

Ambassador Liluashvili: Our Bilateral agenda is packed for this year. We have exemplary relations between our countries which I want to complement with many cultural events. We plan to have Georgian wine tastings and culinary classes and organise exhibitions, inviting Georgian artists to Hungary.

Georgian classical singers and musicians often visit Budapest for shows. A Georgian theatre group will also perform in the city on 26 and 27 April as part of the 10th Theatre Olympics. On 25 May, there will be a grandiose performance by the Georgian National Dance Ballet “ Sukhishvili”, details HERE.

There are many interesting events in the pipeline, such as the Georgian Cultural days held in Budapest and in other cities. I have a dream to organise gastro trips to Georgia for Hungarian chefs who can thus create Georgian and Hungarian fusion dishes upon their return. I would like to have our winemakers have stronger ties. It would be intriguing to see what type of wine we can create by mixing typical Georgian and Hungarian grapes.

As a final word, during my term in Hungary, I vow to make sure that Georgia will have the chance to demonstrate its endless hospitality, food, wine and everything else that makes life a little richer.

Read also our latest interviews:

Gastronomy, culture, Puskás – Interview with the Ambassador of Spain in Budapest

We interviewed H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis, the ambassador of Spain in Budapest. We talked about his first impressions of Hungary and the Hungarian language, the economic, cultural and touristic ties between the two countries and, of course, we did not miss the two countries’ world-famous gastronomic heritage and Ferenc Puskás, one of the world’s best footballers, who is respected in Madrid, too.

DNH: You have just arrived in our country. Can you tell us about the missions you have been involved in during your career?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: My career has concentrated almost exclusively on Europe, with the exception of a stint at the Spanish mission to the United Nation in New York. I have been Ambassador to the Netherlands, Permanent Representative of Spain to the European Union in Brussels and Ambassador to Italy before becoming Spanish Ambassador to Hungary. In Madrid I have held several high ranking positions, such as European advisor in the Prime Minister’s office, Director of Organization of the Spanish Presidency of the EU in 2002, Secretary General for European affairs at the Spanish foreign Ministry and finally Foreign Minister between 2016-2018.

DNH: Before your arrival, did you have any contacts or experiences with Hungary? Have you been here before?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: I had been only to Budapest, which I had visited a couple of times, the first one in 1988, the second in 2011 during the Hungarian presidency of the EU.

The Speaker of the Hungarian Parlianent, László Kövér, and Ambassador Dastis. Photo: Embassy of Spain in Budapest

DNH: And now that you live here, what is your first impression of Budapest, Hungary and Hungarians?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: So far I have concentrated mostly in Budapest, which is truly a beautiful city. From the sites on hills on the Buda side to the monuments on Pest, there is a lot to explore and discover. I have also visited Debrecen, Miskolc and Veszprem, which is the cultural capital of Europe this year, but I intend to travel extensively throughout Hungary to experience the richness and diversity of this great country.

As for my experience with people: At first, you get the impression that Hungarians aren’t very talkative and they come across as reserved. Besides, communication can be difficult if you do not speak Hungarian because of the language barrier. But they are polite and respectful and when you get to know them, they are very friendly. And in above all, my institutional interlocutors, both at the national and local level, have always been very accessible, welcoming and willing to help.

President Novák with Ambassador Dastis. Photo: Embassy of Spain in Budapest

DNH: How would you describe Hungarian-Spanish intergovernmental relations? When was the last time there was a prime ministerial or ministerial meeting between the two countries? And is there a high-level meeting scheduled for this year?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: The year 2022 marked the 45th anniversary of the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between Spain and Hungary. Bilateral relations are traditionally good, without disputes, and are anchored in the common membership of the EU and NATO. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Mr. Szijjártó paid three official visits to Spain between 2020 and 2021: In October 2020 and November 2021 he attended a meeting of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), in Barcelona. On June 28 he also attended the NATO Summit in Madrid, together with PM Orbán and the Minister of Defense, Mr. Szalay-Bobrovniczky. The last visit to Budapest of a Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs was that of Mr. Josep Borrell In December 2018. In July 2022, the Secretary General of the EU, María Lledó, visited Budapest, followed by a visit by the Secretary of State for the European Union, Pascual Navarro, in November. The latter two took place in the context of the preparation of the Trio of Presidencies of the Council of the European Union, that will be held by Spain, Belgium and Hungary between July 2023 and December 2024.

DNH: On the economic front, we know that there are many Spanish companies in Hungary. Which are the biggest ones?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis:

1. Audax Renewables Kft. (Energy)
2. Gestamp-Hungária Kft. (Automotive sector)
3. Inditex Magyaország Kft. (Fashion chain)
4. F. Segura Hungária Kft. (Automotive sector)
5. Antolin Hungary Kft. (Automotive sector)
6. Tokaj-Oremus Kft. (Wine cellar)
7. FCC Hungaria Kft. (Waste management)

As you see, they are concentrated mostly on the automotive sector, energy and infrastructure. There are also several hotel chains mainly in Budapest.

Ambassador Dastis and the Spanish King. Photo: Embassy of Spain in Budapest

DNH: And which Hungarian companies can make their mark in Spain? And which Hungarian goods have made a name for themselves in your country?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis:

  1. Gedeon Richter Ibérica SA, pharmaceutical products.
  2. Vertis Iberica SA, metallurgical items.

Hungary exports to Spain amounted to 3 billion euros until November 2022. Mainly components for cars and other minor industrial items. From the import side Hungry received from Spain car components and other minor industrial and agricultural items (pork meat) for a total amount of 1.8 billion euros.

DNH: Spain is a long way from Russia and war, but it has been brave in standing up against aggression. How do you support Ukraine?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: Spain’s political, humanitarian and military support for Ukraine has been constant since the beginning of Russia’s invasion. Spain has taken in more than 130,000 Ukrainians, delivered several tons of humanitarian aid to Ukraine and neighbouring countries, and committed more than 31 million euros. Spain also contributes 2.5 billion euros to the European Peace Fund.

Between March and June 2022, Spanish airline company Iberia offered free seats for Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war on its direct flights Budapest-Madrid, allowing nearly 700 people, in coordination with the Embassy of Spain in Budapest and different charity organizations, mostly women and children, to be transferred to Spain.  Militarily, Spain has concentrated on training Ukrainian soldiers, but has also provided some weapons, lately some Leopard Tanks.

DNH: The Iberian peninsula is much warmer than Hungary, but you still need gas. What about energy security?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: Spain’s role in addressing the energy crisis created by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is attracting attention in Europe. Spain is largely independent of Russian hydrocarbons: according to figures from Cores (the Spanish Corporation of Strategic Reserves of Oil Products) for January 2022, they make up just 2% of its oil and 6% of its gas imports. Since mid-2021, Spain has halved its imports, making a significant contribution to diversification in Europe.

The decommissioning of coal power plants and their replacement by gas, alongside contributions from nuclear and renewable energy are also among the country’s contributions to mitigating climate and geopolitical risk. Renewable energy in Spain is around 21.2% of energy consumption, this places it ahead of the four biggest players in the EU’s energy markets: Germany (19.3%), France (19.1%), Italy (20.4%) and Poland (16.1%). Spain now has the largest capacity for LNG regasification in Europe. It also has two gas pipelines with Algeria: the first (Medgaz) is operating at full capacity; the second (Gazoduc Maghreb Europe –GME–), via Morocco, was discontinued by Algeria in October 2021. Spanish energy companies are internationally established and stand out for their solidity and leadership in renewables and LNG.

Spain is among the EU Member States with the greatest long-term potential and export capacity for green hydrogen and renewables, but we need to improve interconnections with the rest of Europe. The Commission’s REPowerEU also echoes Spain’s urgent call for electricity interconnections.

DNH: Spain is a very attractive place for Hungarians. Can you tell us how many Hungarian tourists have gone to your country? And which are the most popular tourist destinations?

In 2022, we have beaten all the records, reaching out the figure of 377.365 visitors from Hungary (44% higher than 2021’s figures and 20% higher than 2019’s). So far in 2023 we still haven’t got the number of visitors but the forecast is hopeful that the trend of a growing number of visitors will continue.

Country of residence

Hungary

Year

Number of visitors

% variation

2016

200.828

 

2017

273.410

36,14%

2018

287.204

5,05%

2019

316.414

10,17%

2020

83.152

-73,72%

2021

120.224

44,58%

2022

377.365

213,88%

 

DNH: And which are the most popular tourist destinations?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: Catalonia is at the top of the ranking of the most popular Spanish destinations among Hungarian people (roughly 190.000 visitors), followed by Balearic islands (up to 80.000 visitors in 2022) and Madrid (30.000 people). Also the Canary islands, Andalucía and Region of Valencia are very popular destinations for the Hungarian lovers of Spain.

I am sure Hungary is also a popular destination for Spanish tourists. Can you give us some details about this? (favourite destinations, statistics etc)
Indeed. You only have to stroll along the streets of Budapest and listen to how much Spanish is spoken to realize how popular Hungary and specially Budapest is popular with Spanish tourists. According to the website of the National Statistics Office (KSH), in 2022 some 261,000 people visited Hungary from Spain. The average stay was 4.4 days and the average amount spent was 35,000 HUF per day.

97.6% of them visited Budapest and the Central Danube Region, the figure for Budapest alone is 96.8%. None of the other Hungarian regions received a percentage greater than 1%. It is worth mentioning that, according to the Statistics Office, the effects of the pandemic have not yet disappeared.

DNH: In cultural terms, there is a lot of work being done both by the Spanish Embassy and by the Cervantes Institute. What major events have there been recently and what events can we expect this year?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: Hungarians love culture and they are very well educated, so the cultural scene is very rich and there is a lot of potential for cultural cooperation. The first cultural event that I was able to inaugurate upon my arrival in Hungary was the Spanish Film Week, which the Embassy of Spain has been organizing for more than a decade and is one of the most anticipated cultural events both by Hungarian moviegoers and the community. Spanish-speaking from the capital. In order to keep the public’s expectations high, we do everything possible to bring to Hungary the most recent, most awarded and most successful Spanish film productions in Spain and abroad.

As regards 2023, as we have been doing year after year, the cultural proposals of the Embassy of Spain will continue the effort of interrelation, seeking the meeting point with the local, aspiring to establish links between the cultural manifestations of both countries. , with special attention to the values that guide our foreign policy and with a particular focus on the three significant events that will considerably influence the development of bilateral cultural relations: Veszprém ECOC 2023, the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU and the 150th anniversary of the creation of the Hungarian capital with the unification of Buda and Pest. We are in negotiations with institutions and cultural managers from Spain and Hungary with the aim of planning a varied cultural program with a considerable presence of Spain in all areas.

One point that I would like to emphasize is the interest of Hungarians, specially the younger ones, in learning Spanish. For us, our language is a very important asset for cooperation, so on top of the role that the Cervantes Institute is playing, we try to promote the teaching of Spanish at all educational levels and we are very happy with the cooperation received from the Hungarian authorities. In particular, in secondary education, there are seven bilingual Institutes across the Country and I am amazed at how mature and serious the students are, so that augurs very well for the deepening of our cooperation and common knowledge in the future.

DNH: Spanish cuisine is world famous, just think of tapas or paella. How much do you like Hungarian cuisine? What are three Hungarian dishes you would like every Spaniard to try?

As for the food, I must confess that I find it a bit too rich for my taste and I miss fish, which we eat a lot in Spain. If I had to recommend three dishes, I would choose of course the Goulash soup, the goose liver and something sweet like the somlói galuska.

DNH: Finally, a bit of football. Puskás is highly respected in both countries. I understand that there is a street named after the greatest Hungarian footballer and a statue of him in Madrid.  Who is Puskás for the Spanish?

H. E. Ambassador Alfonso Dastis: Puskás was very popular in Spain and especially in Madrid, where he was much loved. He was known as Pancho, which is an affectionate nickname for those who are called Francisco, or as Little cannon Puskás, due to the speed and force with which he shot the ball with his left leg. He won three European Cups and five Spanish Championships with Real Madrid. In memory of his passage through Madrid there is a street named after him.

Read also:

Interview with H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj, Moroccan Ambassador to Hungary

H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj, Ambassador of Morocco to Budapest

We interviewed H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj, Ambassador of Morocco to Hungary, about Hungarian-Moroccan relations, the Sahara, the Council of Arab Ambassadors and much more.

Daily News Hungary (DNH): There are many places in Budapest that attract tourists, but what attractions would you recommend to Moroccans when they come to Hungary?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: Hungary is a country filled with history. Its sophisticated and diverse architecture is breath-taking and the landscapes it offers are stunning.
Since the country offers so much, it will be hard for me to choose the recommendations. The Parliament building, the museums, mainly the national museum and fine art museum, Buda castle and Fisherman’s Bastion as well as the opera are places that I would say are a must-see when in Budapest.
Also, I would suggest that they seize the opportunity they are in Budapest, the city of arts, and to attend concerts of classical music, especially at the well-known Franz Liszt Academy and the Opera House.
I will also add to enjoy the beauty of the Danube, which reminds me of the Bou Regreg river which divides two cities in Morocco, Rabat, the capital and Sale, the city of the historic ochre-colored walls. Experiencing the thermal baths, enjoying Hungarian cuisine, and exploring the city is the best way to get to discover Hungarian culture.

DNH: Tourism is what many of us think of when we think of Morocco. What are three things Hungarian tourists should definitely visit in your country? Related to this, is there any chance of a regular flight between the two capitals again?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: Indeed, Morocco is one of the best tourists’ destinations in the world. The sector of tourism in Morocco is considered strategic as it generates about 7% of the country’s GDP. In 2022 and despite the effect of the outbreak of COVID-19, Morocco was able to recover and attracted over 10.9 billion tourists.

Morocco is a colorful country, we even have some specific colored cities, such as, Marrakech, the Red city, Tangier, the White Pearl of the North as well as Chefchaouen, a hidden Blue Gem and Fes the Yellow city.

It is also a vibrant country, which offers dazzling diversity, not only culturally but also in terms of landscapes, mountains, different beaches (Atlantic and Mediterranean), Sahara Desert and mostly the warmth and hospitality of its people, which I have experienced and felt with the Hungarian people, whom kindness always reminds me of people at home.
I would suggest to take the imperial cities tour that allows you to visit the most important heritage sites and the history of the Moroccan dynasties. The itinerary will let you discover different regions and cities of Morocco, such as Marrakech, famously one of the best destinations for tourism in the world. Fes, the spiritual capital of Morocco, where throughout history, Muslims, Jewish and Christians lived in harmony. The city is also home to the oldest still-functioning university in the world “al-Qarawiyyin” established in 857-859. From there, the trip will head to Rabat, the city of light, a city where history and modernity blend together. It has been recently featured in Time Magazine as “World’s greatest place for this year”.
My suggestion will also be to dive into the beauty of the Sahara region, like enjoying Dakhla for its spectacular lagoons and golden sand. Dakhla is also known as one of the important destinations for international amateurs and professionals in sliding sports.
With regard to your question on direct flights between Hungary and Morocco, the discussion is undergoing for the time being without a specified calendar. However, Morocco is reachable from mostly everywhere within a couple of hours.

DNH: Few people in Hungary know that Sahara is a major source of conflict between Morocco and its neighbor. Could you explain what is at the heart of the conflict and what peaceful solutions you see in this matter?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: The regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara, which is an existential issue for the Moroccan Nation as a whole, remains one of the oldest regional conflicts in the world.
To gain independence, Morocco had to negotiate, in stages, the retrocession of different parts of its national territory, in accordance with the UN Charter. The same process had been applied to recover the Sahara region which was under the Spanish administration. In this regard, The General Assembly resolution urged the Spanish administrative power, in 1965, to take necessary measures for the liberation of the rest of the Spanish Sahara. Accordingly, Tarfaya and Sidi Ifni recovered respectively in 1958 and 1969. In 1975, and after long negotiations, an agreement was signed with Spain, the “Madrid Agreement” duly registered at the UN, according to its dispositions, Morocco should recover the rest of its southern provinces by peaceful means. After that, the Green March was organized and which was a momentum that marked our history. Unfortunately, the changes in the context of Spain, the Maghreb and at the international level, made the complete recuperation of the Sahara region complicated.
In addition, Polisario, the separatist armed group, who are maliciously and falsely claimed rights to represent the Sahrawi population, did not exist during the colonial period, and is not recognized at the international level as “a liberation movement” and even less as “sole legitimate representative” of the Sahrawi people. This separatist group holds no legal or popular base, or even any democratic legitimacy to aspire to represent the population of Sahrawi origin. This is also reflected by the withdrawal of recognition by the international community, of the self-proclaimed “republic” of the Polisario. Today, only 31 countries out of 193 states members in the UN recognize the fallacious and illusionary “republic”.
This same separatist group has also proven, to the whole international community, to have direct connections with terrorism in the Sahel region. For example, the infamous terrorist Adnan Abu Walid was a member of the Polisario before becoming the head of the terrorist group “Islamic State in the greater Sahara” who used to seek refuge in the Tindouf camps, run by the Polisario, and which became a hub for financing terrorism in the Sahel, through the illicit transfer of funds.
Regarding Tindouf camp, which is not on Moroccan territory, is subject to daily repression, excessive use of power, enforced disappearances, arrests and torture, resulting in several casualties among the inhabitants of the camps, as well as the restrictions on freedom of expression and mobility imposed by the Polisario, not to mention the embezzlement of the humanitarian aid.
According to different reports, notably the one presented by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), on the food aid provided by the EU Member States, revealed that much of the international humanitarian aid to Tindouf camps is embezzled and sold in an organized way in favor of polisario officials, leaving the rest of the people in the camp suffering from hunger, malnutrition and different diseases.
It is worth underlining that the Polisario is insisting on the organization of the Referendum as the only solution to achieve self-determination, while the mechanism has proven to be inapplicable in the case of the Sahara, due to the tribal and nomadic aspects of the Sahrawi population, which made the identification process for the referendum impossible and indecisive.
Therefore, and since 2004, the Security Council, no longer invokes the organization of a referendum and has continuously called upon the parties to “put an end to the impasse and move towards a final political solution mutually accepted and of compromise” to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.
In response, the Kingdom of Morocco submitted an Autonomy initiative, in April 2007, that is substantial, innovative and in accordance with international law. This proposal gained support from many countries and created a new dynamic within the SC.
Since then, all the SC Resolutions adopted on the regional dispute over the Sahara, have confirmed the pre-eminence of the Autonomy Plan, and recognized its credibility and its seriousness.

Hungary, a country that has also suffered similar challenges with the adoption of the Trianon Treaty in 1920, is aware of the sensitivity of the issue and is one of pioneer European countries that always supported the territorial integrity of Morocco and praised the autonomy plan presented by Morocco and the efforts carried out under the exclusive auspices of the United Nations to achieve a realistic, pragmatic, lasting, political and compromise-based solution to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

This dynamic in favor of the Moroccan territorial integrity has been also expressed by more than 27 countries who have established their General Consulates in the Southern provinces of Morocco, in Laayoune and Dakhla, reflecting their full support to the territorial integrity and Sovereignty of the Kingdom over its Sahara.
Therefore, Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara is a historical fact, legal legitimacy and a cause of a nation, which is fully reflected by the Moroccan Initiative for Autonomy, in all its human, social, political, cultural, and economic components.

H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj, Ambassador of Morocco to Budapest
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj, Ambassador of Morocco to Budapest.

DNH: Hungary used to have a kingdom, but you still have one. Could you briefly talk about the Monarchy?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: Morocco is one of the oldest Monarchies in the world. It dates back to 791 when the empire/state of Morocco was founded. Only a few monarchies can claim that much history.
The strength of the Moroccan monarchy rises from its spiritual influence, meaning that the Monarch holds the Title of Amir Al-Mouminine, the Commander of All Faithful, making of Morocco a country of religious and spiritual tolerance as demonstrated by the harmonious coexistence of the religions and their symbols, such as mosques, churches and synagogues throughout the national territory.

Its historic context relies on the fact of continuity that also offers stability. In other words, the current ruling is Alaouite, dates back to the 17th century, which inherited its reigning from several dynasties before, such as Almoravid, Almohad, Marinid, Wattasid, and Saadi.

Therefore, the Moroccan Monarchy as a system has accumulated rich and diverse national and international experiences which have been passed from one King to the next.
And lastly, its symbolic meaning as the Monarchs of Morocco are the Symbols of Unity and Stability, who aspire to protect citizens’ religion, security, public order, justice, and dignity. That is why you can witness the strong bond between the Moroccans and their Monarchs, which sometimes extends even beyond the borders of the Kingdom.

DNH: What are the political relations like between Morocco and Hungary? And what are the business links between the two countries? What kind of Moroccan goods can Hungarian customers find and what kind of Hungarian companies are successful in your country?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: The Kingdom of Morocco and Hungary celebrates, this year, 64 years since the establishment of their diplomatic relations.
The bilateral relations between the two parties, which recently knew important dynamics, are governed by wide range of agreements that cover several and diverse areas of cooperation namely, agriculture, industry, education, culture, sport, transport, scientific research, judicial cooperation and in the field of archives.
The growing pace of exchanges of high-level visits on both sides in recent years has given a new dynamic to bilateral relations between the two sides and allowed the establishment of regular political dialogue at the Governmental level. Both countries also enjoy mutual support within international and regional organizations, such as the European parliament, the Council of Europe and also within the United Nations’ different bodies.
The growth of the relations can also be witnessed at the parliamentary level. in recent years, there has been a regular exchange of meetings between the Speakers of the Parliaments of Hungary and Morocco. Also, we have recently renewed the Parliamentary friendship group between Hungary and Morocco, and we are planning to conduct a visit to Morocco soon.
Moreover, the relations are extended to a mutual interest in developing sectorial cooperation, notably in terms of renewable energies, digitalization, water and waste-water management as well as Academic and scientific research field.
Regarding Academic cooperation,

I would like to thank the Hungarian authorities for the great opportunity they offer to Moroccan students, through Stipendium Hungaricum program, that was renewed and signed last January and which was the occasion to increase the number of scholarships offered to 165 yearly, with a vision to even further grow the number of the beneficiaries.

This is very important because these Moroccan students who benefit from the SH programs, are later becoming envoys that promote inter-human connections, and hence contribute significantly to enhancing the cooperation between both countries.
I would say that the historic relationship between Morocco and Hungary relies on friendship, mutual respect and a shared interest in peace and prosperity with a joint vision and will to even further deepen the excellent relations that exist already.

DNH: One of the Embassy’s main tasks is to make Morocco better known to Hungarians. What were the main events of the last six months and what events are planned for the near future?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: The Embassy organizes different events to promote Morocco, culturally, politically and economically.
For instance, a couple of weeks ago the Embassy organized in collaboration with the Institute of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary as well as with Corvinus University, two lectures on the role of Morocco in Africa, as well as the contribution of Morocco to the stability of the region.
We have also participated in the Arab Cultural Day, organised by the Council of Arab Ambassadors, which was an opportunity to show our Hungarian friends the diversified cultural heritage of Morocco and other Arab countries. (read also: Arab Cultural Day in Budapest: a great cultural and diplomatic event – PHOTOS) We took part in the famous diplomatic fair as well, which was an occasion to showcase different cosmetic products from Morocco, which are made of local ingredients such as argan oil. We also participated in the “Week of Francophonie”, with a Moroccan movie called “Queens”, which surprisingly was full house during the two days when it was screened at the famous Urania National Film Theatre. Besides, the guests were also able to taste and enjoy various delicacies of the Moroccan cuisine.
Different activities are in the pipeline. This year, we are planning to organise a joint exhibition and a lecture, with the Hapsburg Foundation and the Archives of Morocco, to commemorate the deep relations that exist between Hungary and Morocco.

Recently a group of Hungarian businessmen visited Morocco to explore ways of enhancing the business cooperation.

Therefore, we are looking at organising a joint Business Forum to boost bilateral trade and investment.
To highlight the importance of the harmonious coexistence of religion in Morocco, the Embassy will soon organise an exhibition celebrating the cohabitation of Muslims, Jewish and Christians in Morocco throughout history.

DNH: You are also the head of both, the Council of Arab Ambassadors and the African Group. Could you tell us about these two groups? Where can we attend their events?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: It has been an honour and privilege for me to hold the deanship of two important informal groups representing the Arab and African countries. It is also an opportunity for me to engage more actively with the Hungarian authorities and to properly present and promote the African and Arab cultures and interests in our host country, Hungary. It also offers a platform of dialogue for the Arab and African Ambassadors to share and discuss opportunities and initiatives that contribute to enhancing the cooperation between Hungary and the Arab and African countries represented in the capital.

Aside from the events organised by the Embassy, we also set up joint activities with the embassies’ members to the two mentioned groups.

For instance, we participated in the Arab Culture Day, as I have mentioned previously. We also celebrate jointly the African Day held each year on the 25th of May.
Within Ramadan festivities, the holy month when Muslims around the world fast and are more spiritually engaged, the Council of Arab Ambassadors is organising a friendly football tournament between the Arab embassies in Budapest.
We are also discussing the organisation of an Arab Movie week, which will be an occasion to promote and bring the cultures of different Arab countries to the Hungarian people.
All our events are promoted through the social media platforms of the Embassy, mainly on Twitter and Facebook. Therefore, I would suggest that you follow us to be updated on coming events.

DNH: What are your favorite Hungarian dishes and are there any that you can prepare yourself?
H.E. Mrs. Karima Kabbaj: I very much enjoy Hungarian gastronomy. It reminds me a lot of the Moroccan cuisine, especially when it comes to using paprika and spices when preparing savory dishes. I have also noticed that Hungarian cuisine is rich in marzipan-flavoured pastries. In Morocco, where sweets are essential, we also commonly use almonds paste and honey. These types of desserts are usually accompanied by Moroccan mint tea.
As for my favourite Hungarian dishes, it will be tricky to choose since I enjoy most of them. For example, I like the Goulash soup, the taste is very similar to the Moroccan vegetable soup that we usually prepare either with chicken or beef.
I also like famous Hungarian dishes such as duck leg and duck liver, which are not commonly used in Moroccan cuisine. For dessert, my favorite is the túrógombóc (sweet cottage cheese dumplings).
I think what is important is that both Moroccan and Hungarian cuisines offer endless choices, reflecting the richness of the two cultures and the influences they had throughout history.

Interview with Turkish Ambassador Karanis on the Turkish-Hungarian relations and many more!

We interviewed Her Excellency Ambassador Gülşen Karanis, head of the Turkish embassy in Hungary. During the interview, we talked about the devastating earthquake that hit Türkiye in February, the history of the Turkish-Hungarian brotherhood, upcoming events, her favourite pieces of Hungarian gastronomy and more!

Daily News Hungary (DNH): I must ask you about a very tragic event at the beginning of this interview. The earthquake has also touched many people in Hungary. Can you tell us exactly how much Türkiye and the Turkish people have suffered in this natural disaster? (Losses in numbers) Also you were involved in a way, as your husband was in the area affected by the earthquake.

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: As you mentioned, we experienced two consecutive earthquakes on February, the 6th. These earthquakes, measured respectively on a Richter scale of 7.7 and 7.6, caused massive destruction and devastation in South-East Turkey. A total of 11 provinces, 62 districts and almost 11.000 villages were affected. We lost around 50.000 people and around two million were evacuated from their homes.

Just for you to comprehend the all-powerful nature of the disaster, we are referring to an area 20% greater than the entire landmass of Hungary. This is particularly why, disaster relief and the WHO emergency response experts called these twin earthquakes as “the disaster of the century”. Both in terms of the number of losses and the ensuing suffering, they certainly brought about the gravest suffering in our Republican history.

Due to the harsh winter conditions in the region as well as the destruction of the fundamental infrastructure including transport, communication and energy, we were faced with enormous challenges. Our disaster and emergence response teams, whose own family and friends were also affected by the earthquakes, mobilized quickly and effectively.

Given the sheer magnitude of the disaster and its coverage, almost all families in Türkiye were affected one way or another. Our family was no exception. When the earthquakes stroke, my husband Ekrem was in Hatay, very close to the epicenter. He was working there as an assistant coach for the city’s football team competing in the Turkish Super League. He was trapped under debris for a while, yet lucky to be able to save himself. He attended to the rescue of his colleagues and players, but unfortunately some of them did not survive the earthquake. His team, Hatayspor, had to eventually withdraw from the competition.

DNH: As far as I know, the Hungarian people have expressed their great sympathy and have tried to help the victims of the Turkish disaster in many ways. The HUNOR rescue team is a source of pride for all of Hungary. Their help certainly meant a lot in Türkiye. Can you tell us about the reactions?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: We are most grateful for the international solidarity displayed in the aftermath of the disaster. In response to our call for international assistance, many countries mobilized their search and rescue teams and extended us a helping hand. Hungary was one of the first to rush to our rescue.

The official Hungarian teams, including HUNOR, and 5 different non-governmental organizations dispatched their teams to the earthquake-stricken provinces. We received a total of 167 Hungarian personnel, accompanied by 28 search and rescue dogs. Together, they managed to save 35 Turkish people from under the ruins. Upon their return, there were ceremonies and events to honor the Hungarian teams. It was also very touching to see President Novák’s display of solidarity with Türkiye when she received them in the Sándor Palace on February, the 14th.

Following the disaster, we received many phone calls from our Hungarian colleagues in so much so that our lines were locked, our Google profile sustained a seven-fold increase in terms of viewings and many interactions with our social media accounts. Our Hungarian friends from different age groups, professions and walks of life made generous donations, both in-kind and cash, to our campaign. Donations literally poured in the Embassy chancery and our logistical warehouse. We could not withhold our tears when we saw small Hungarian children painting pictures and bringing them to us to be sent to children in the disaster area. They even sent their pocket money to the Embassy’s relief account. We dispatched all those materials to Türkiye with 6 planes and 12 trucks. The total amount collected in our donations’ account is more than 300.000 Dollars.

Foreign Minister Szijjártó visited Türkiye on 27 February to show solidarity and convey his condolences. Prime Minister Orbán also brought along 100 tons of medical and humanitarian aid last week. As Turkish Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu particularly underlined, it was not the first time that Hungary responded to our call in the moment of need. We still remember your help and solidarity after the massive earthquake in 1999. Hungarian rescue dog, Mancs, was all over the Turkish newspapers after saving a 3-year-old girl. It must be an act of fate that his trainer, László Lehoczki, saved another child last month in Hatay.

Turkish people were really touched to watch László Pavelcze to burst into tears after saving another child. And some of our people wanted to reciprocate in their own way. When the Hungarian search and rescue team run out of gas, Turkish people did not let them pay in petrol station. A hotel in the region did not accept payment from Hungarian journalist covering the disaster. Recently, Hungary has demonstrated more than once that “a friend in need is a friend indeed”.

DNH: The Hungarian-Turkish brotherhood is not just an empty phrase, it has a serious background. What links can you highlight? The Turkic Council is playing an increasingly important role in the life of both countries. The Hungarian and Turkish governments are also in very close political contact. How is this reflected nowadays?

gülsen karanis turkish ambassador budapest
Gülşen Karanis, Turkish Ambassador. Source: Facebook/T.C. Budapeşte Büyükelçiliği/Turkish Embassy in Budapest

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: You rightly underlined the strong nature of Turkish-Hungarian brotherhood. Our relations have deep historical roots. We supported each other at important milestones. The traces of Hungarian national heroes like Kossuth, Rákóczi and Thököly Imre are all over Anatolia, from Kütahya and Tekirdağ to İzmit.

Similarly, we did not forget your support at crucial junctures like the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878 or later in Gallipoli in 1915. Similarly, our soldiers fallen at the Galicia front during the World War I, are buried here in Budapest. We recently commemorated them in the military cemetery in special service on March, the 18th.

Hungarian engineers, academics and experts have contributed to the development of the young Turkish Republic. In fact, we signed the first treaty as “the Republic of Türkiye” with Hungary back in December 1923.

I felt the special nature of our relation when I first visited the tomb of Gül Baba immediately after my arrival here in this beautiful city. It is yet another eternal symbol of our friendship.

Our relations have recently gained momentum and we successfully managed to diversify the portfolio of relations. We established “High-Level Strategic Council” in the form of joint cabinet meetings back in 2013. When Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu visited Hungary in January, we decided to elevate the level of our relations to that of “Enhanced Strategic Partnership”. Hungary is one of the very few countries with which we have such high-level cooperation.

Only in the first three months of 2023, three Turkish Ministers visited Budapest, whereas Foreign Minister Szijjártó and Prime Minister Orbán visited Ankara. Late this month, we are expecting President Novák to pay an official visit too. This traffic illustrates the breath and depth of our relations.

Organization of Turkic States (OTS), the successor of the Turkic Council, is the latest addition to the portfolio of our relations. Hungary joined this important intergovernmental organization as an observer in 2018. Budapest now hosts the OTS Representation Office. Prime Minister Orbán attended the Extraordinary Summit of the OTS in Ankara on March, the 16th.

Our leaders get along very well and they maintain close contact on a range of regional and international issues as well. This paves the way for the enhanced strategic cooperation between our two countries. The strongest element in our relations, however, is the bond with our two nations at the people-to-people level and it will remain as such.

DNH: Next year will be a special year for the two countries. Can you tell us about the diplomatic anniversary and the series of events? In the near future, there will be major events this year. What are the biggest ones?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: Next year will be a very special occasion in the long history between the Turks and Magyars. First and foremost, we will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Hungary.

We would like to celebrate the centenary with special events that would span the entire year. Both our governments decided to mark 2024 as the “Year of Culture”. On our part, we are planning to organize many cultural, artistic and sports events all across Hungary. Our aim is to organize “100 events for the 100th anniversary”. Our Hungarian friends will hear more about Türkiye in the year to come, and we would be pleased to invite you and your readers to our events.

Our President is envisaged to visit Budapest for the next meeting of the High-Level Strategic Council in December 2023. This will mark the opening of the Year of Culture between Türkiye and Hungary. I know that the Hungarian side is also planning many events for this joyous occasion and the closing event will take place in Ankara at the end of the year.

DNH: On the economic front, there have been some major Turkish investments recently and there are likely to be more announcements. Where can Hungarian businesses (services, industry, food) enter the Turkish market?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: Economic and commercial relations is one of the key driving forces in our bilateral relations. Last year, we sustained a 13% increase in our trade volume and reached around 3,5 billion Dollars. Our target is to increase this figure to 6 billion soon. This is our vision and we work together to reach this target.

Last year, we established a new platform to ensure coordination and coherence on the economic front, while the Joint Economic Commission between the two countries held its 8th session in Budapest in January. We hope to convene the newly established Joint Economic and Trade Commission with the participation of business circles in recent future.

We are pleased that around 500 Turkish businesses are currently operating in Hungary. Turkish construction companies recently undertook 55 projects, whose total worth already exceeded 1,5 billion Dollars. As a matter of fact, Turkish companies are building new production lines for global giants in Hungary. Turkish and Hungarian automotive companies have established a very comprehensive partnership. One of the world’s leading automotive glass suppliers and glass packaging firm is Turkish-owned and they will soon have a production facility in Hungary.

There are many Turkish investments in the field of tourism and hospitality including hotels and restaurants here in Budapest and elsewhere.

In terms of trade and investment, Türkiye offers a lot of opportunities. We have one of the fastest growing economies in the world and a sizeable domestic market with strong access to the surrounding regions. Due to our convenient location and connectivity, we host many regional headquarters in our country. We have a very young and dynamic population, who is well trained and highly skilled. The general climate for foreign direct investments is very favorable.

Over the years, we crafted a very supportive and advantageous ecosystem for research and development. This is particularly important for certain sectors, like technology, defense & aerospace, chemicals, energy, financial services and life sciences. Prospects for these sectors are bright. It is particularly telling that a Hungarian company has recently invested to manufacture incubators in our capital city. We encourage more Hungarian investments in Türkiye and stand ready to support any businesses who might be interested.

DNH: Tourism between the two countries is also growing. What figures can the two sides boast?

gülsen karanis turkish ambassador budapest
Gülşen Karanis, Turkish Ambassador. Source: Facebook/T.C. Budapeşte Büyükelçiliği/Turkish Embassy in Budapest

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: Our shared past, the Ottoman cultural heritage in Hungary and numerous places of historical significance for renowned Hungarian figures in Türkiye are behind the booming tourism numbers. Last year, around 170.000 tourists from Hungary visited our country and thousands of Turkish people visit different places in Hungary as well. We also have a sizeable Turkish student community. More than 1.000 chose Hungarian universities for their college education or spend sometime in higher education institutions as part of EU programmes.

I am pleased to hear that Turkish tourists are feeling at home in Hungary. Our cultures and cuisines are very close to each other. I consider myself as an eternal tourist as well. I am exploring different regions of Hungary and enjoying every moment of it.

DNH: I don’t know how well-known it is, but I really liked the idea of Turkish police officers on duty at the Hungarian border. How long has this cooperation been going on and what is the main purpose of this initiative? And how do the policemen feel here?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: As transit countries for illegal migration, both Türkiye and Hungary raised concerns for a long time in different platforms. This phenomenon, which is too big and complicated to be handled by any single country alone, created some problems for regular cargo and passenger traffic.

In February 2021, our Foreign Ministers decided to boost cooperation in this regard. In December 2021, our respective Interior Ministers signed a memorandum of understanding. Turkish and Hungarian police forces are now patrolling together in your border crossings along Romania and Serbia. There are 50 police officers in these borders, who also extend their help for smooth passage of people and ordinary goods.

This project became one of the flagship cooperation schemes between Türkiye and Hungary. So far, we have received very encouraging feedback from Turkish and Hungarian officials as well as our citizens. Our police officers checked around 750.000 vehicles. Turkish travelers have been really happy to see our police officers with Turkish insignia extending them help while crossing borders. It is a textbook example of mutually beneficial cooperation.

DNH: It can’t be easy not having a family together because of work. Despite this, have you found a home in Budapest?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: Throughout my career in different avenues, I managed to balance my work and family obligations with the help of natural talent of women. It has not always been easy. At times, albeit briefly, we had to stay apart.

Nowadays, we consider ourselves lucky as we are now united as one family. Budapest is a very welcoming city. For us, it is home away from home. My three kids settled well in their schools and already started enjoying their life. We strive to visit different parts of the country on every occasion. We are amazed by Hungarian history and culture as well as its natural beauty. Hungary offers an excellent base to explore the rest of central Europe as well.

It seems that we will be travelling a lot in the days and months to come!

DNH: You are a very active ambassador, as we can see from the press and social media. When you need to relax, what do you do? Do you have a favourite place in Budapest where you go to relax?

gülsen karanis turkish ambassador budapest
Gülşen Karanis, Turkish Ambassador and Zsolt Németh. Source: Facebook/T.C. Budapeşte Büyükelçiliği/Turkish Embassy in Budapest

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: All Turkish ambassadors maintain active and engaging profiles abroad. After all, as diplomats, it is our duty to build bridges and connect people. Investing in relationships to promote Türkiye and deepening relations with our host countries is part and parcel of our job.

Yet, it is true that I pay particular attention to develop close relations with the press and reach out to different segments of the Hungarian society. In today’s world, social media channels provide us with unprecedented ways and means for engagement.

I have an excellent team at the Embassy supporting my role as the Ambassador. We work hard for further improving the Turkish-Hungarian relations, and we use every opportunity to underline both the importance and potential of this very special connection between our two nations.

We must arrange another interview so that I can at least try to do justice in terms of my favorite places in Budapest. They are so many and so diversified! From finding treasures and vintage items in the Ecseri flea market to a relaxing walk along the Danube, I never experience a dull moment strolling in and around the city.

DNH: Outside of Budapest, which Hungarian cities and attractions have you enjoyed?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: I pay particular attention to connect different regions of Hungary with Türkiye. I regularly visit different cities to meet with Mayors, Chambers of Commerce, Hungarian and Turkish businesses. In this regard, I visited Kaposvár, Debrecen, Szigetvár, Pécs, Esztergom, Székesfehérvár and Szeged so far and more visits will follow. I also have cities with Ottoman heritage like Szigetvár, Eger and Mohács on my list.

DNH: Turkish and Hungarian gastronomy are not that far apart. How much do you like Hungarian food?

H. E. Ambassador Karanis: There are many similar and almost identical dishes in our cuisines, including your famous stews, soups, renowned pogacas and even servings of bulgur along with main courses. I absolutely love the Hungarian food. It is very rich and tasty.

I must admit that your patisserie is my all time favorite. First Hungarian sentence that I have learned was “hosszú kávét kérek” next to my cake for the afternoon time.

Interview with Tunisian Ambassador Hermi about the Tunisian-Hungarian relations and much more

We interviewed His Excellency Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi, head of the Tunisian embassy in Hungary. During the interview he talked about how astonishing he finds Budapest, why we should visit Tunisia, what his favourite Hungarian dishes and rural cities.

DNH: Please tell us about yourself. What was your diplomatic background when you arrived in Budapest?

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi: I am a career diplomat with 26 years. I spent my diplomatic career between working at the Ministry and representing Tunisia abroad and serving my country successively in Muscat and Doha before being appointed as Ambassador to Hungary for the first time by His Excellency Mr. Kais Saied, President of the Republic, in November 2020.

DNH: What did you say when you found out that Budapest would be your next home?

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi: Definitely, my family and I were thrilled with the news of my appointment to Hungary, a country I had never had the opportunity to visit before. I was quite happy to start a new experience in a beautiful country that has its own charm and appeal in Central Europe. Despite the challenges that the nature of diplomatic work usually presents in terms of adaptation and stability, I was sure that Budapest would capture the hearts and minds of all who visited and lived in, and that it would leave unforgettable memories in our life.

Tunisia Ambassador Hermi 3
Photo: Embassy of Tunisia in Budapest

DNH: Is Tunisia a potential holiday destination for Hungarians? What makes your country different from other destination?

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi:  It is certain that Tunisia has enough distinct civilization, cultural and geographical elements that place it in the first rank of the most attractive countries for tourists from different countries of the world including Hungary, and a tourist destination able of competing with many other international tourist destinations.

Tunisia is sufficiently aware of the magnitude of the challenges and the fierce competition to take its place on the world tourism map.

This is why Tunisia relies on the richness of its cultural and civilizational heritage and on its privileged geographical location (highest point of the north of the African continent and the closest Mediterranean country to Europe) to be one of the favourable touristic destination for the Hungarians. Tunisia also relies on the quality of tourism services and the richness and diversity of tourism products.

Despite the difficulties encountered by the tourism sector in the world in general and in Tunisia in particular due to Corona pandemic and the repercussions of the war in Ukraine, the ambition remains promising to attract more Hungarian tourists to the Tunisian market, especially in light of the gradual return of tourist flows from Hungary and the ambitious programs that have been set up by the Tunisian National Tourist Office in Budapest in order to attract more than 50,000 Hungarian tourists in the near future.

DNH: What can we know about the current Tunisian-Hungarian government relations? Can you list some important events from the past that were decisive?

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi: Tunisia has a historical friendship with Hungary that dates back to the fifties of the last century, Tunisia being the fourth Arab country to establish diplomatic relations with Hungary a few months after its independence on 20 March 1956. The two countries celebrate this year the 67th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations.

It should be recalled that Tunisia was one of the most prominent countries to firmly defend the revolution of the Hungarian people in 1956 and to support its just cause before the United Nations on the basis of the principle of the peoples’ freedom to self-determination. We recall the considerable efforts made by the permanent representative of Tunisia at the time, the late Mongi Selim, who defended strongly the legitimacy of the United Nations in deliberating the Hungarian question in accordance with the principles and values of the UN Charter. Mongi Slim considered that the UN is entitled to examine the situation in Hungary and to adopt binding resolutions on the basis of the message addressed on November 1, 1956 to the UN Secretary General by the Hungarian Prime Minister Imre Nagy and on the basis of the occupation of Hungarian territory by foreign armed forces. Later, Mongi Slim had obviously contributed to the preparation of the Report of the Special Committee on Hungary.

With regard to the current Tunisian-Hungarian relationship, it is worth emphasizing that it is a diverse relationship based on the principle of respect and mutual trust, and these relations are subject to further growing in the coming years due to the promising capabilities and opportunities available to both countries to develop various sectors of economic, scientific and cultural cooperation.

It is notable that cooperation relations have witnessed in recent years a remarkable development in many fields and are likely to be enriched and diversified more and more.

There are many promising areas of cooperation that must be strengthened in the near future among them higher education through the Stipendium Hungaricum program, security cooperation, ICT, agricultural scientific research, water management and health, in addition to traditional areas such as promoting trade exchanges, investment, tourism and building strong partnerships between the private sector in order to launch joint projects in Tunisia and towards African market.

DNH: What are the economic links between the two countries? What do we import to your country? And what kind of Tunisian goods can the consumer find?

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi: Tunisia has had economic relations with Hungary since 1958, where there is a rich and diversified legal framework governing these relations in terms of economy, trade and investment.

Although the volume of trade remains below expectations (about 125 million Euros in 2022) and does not reflect the real opportunities available on both sides, the increase in the volume of trade is conditioned by the availability of several elements, including the availability of a direct air flight between Tunisia and Hungary and greater involvement of the private sector in the development of trade, in addition to the intensification of reciprocal visits of businessmen of both countries and participation in exhibitions and trade fairs.

The available statistical data indicate a similarity in the composition of exports and imports between Tunisia and Hungary, which includes a significant percentage (over 50%) of electronic and electrical materials and equipment, which is mainly due to investments in the automotive industry and its components located in both countries.

The presence of Tunisian products on the Hungarian market is modest and limited to a few foodstuffs, such as dates, olive oil, Tunisian Harissa, which looks like “paprika”, dried figs and various types of cookies and jams.

DNH: During your time here, your family and your children must have had many experiences of Hungary and Hungarians.

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi: In fact, the Hungarian people are firmly rooted in their deep history and endowed with strong civilization traditions of hospitality, generosity and human warmth.

My family and I experienced this cultural depth during our travels in Hungary to particularly Szentendre, Visegrád and Tihany, where we were warmly welcomed by Hungarian friends. Tunisia also shares with Hungary the same family values and gives to the family a primordial place as the solid core of the society and a vector of its cohesion and development.

DNH: And what do you think of Hungarian food? Can you list some favourites, if there are any?

H. E. Ambassador Abdelkarim Hermi: I think that the Hungarian people, throughout his long history, have built up a rich and varied gastronomic heritage. Gulyás soup with vegetables is one of the most delicious Hungarian dishes, as well the Halászlé or the fisherman’s soup, the deep-fried flat bread Lángos, the Csirkepaprikás, the popular dessert Mádartej and the poppy seed roll.

Prince Harry opens up to Hungarian psychotherapist about his experience with drug use

Máté Gábor writer critisised bbecause of his methots when interviewing the Duke Harry

Prince Harry had an intimate conversation with Dr Gábor Máté in a livestream on 4 March. The conversation took place as a promotion of Prince Harry’s memoir Spare.

The Hungarian-born Canadian psychotherapist and trauma expert explored the topic of “living with loss and personal healing” in his conversation with Harry. In addition to the most traumatic events of his life, the Prince candidly shared his experiences with drug use.

As Blikk also reported, Prince Harry published his memoir Spare about a month ago. The book was met with huge public anticipation, and following its publication, it became an instant bestseller in the UK. His book details, among other things, how he coped with the death of his mother, Princess Diana. However, the controversial book also includes personal attacks on her family. For example, he accuses his brother Prince Willam of physically abusing him.

Tickets for the live streamed conversation sold for GBP 19, which included a hardback copy of the Prince’s book.

Coping with trauma

When asked by Dr Máté if he considered himself a victim, Harry answered with a definite no. He explained that he had never actually sought the sympathy of anyone, he just wanted to help others with his own story.

During the conversation, the Prince also confessed his fear of therapy. He revealed that he had hoped for healing from the therapy, but at the same time he had also had his fears. He was afraid of losing his memories of his mother. But, according to him, the opposite happened. He realised that his mother would have wanted him to be happy in life. And with that discovery, a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders. Moreover, once he began to understand his trauma better, he was able to live a more authentic life.

Harry’s experience with drug use

Harry was also candid about having tried a variety of illegal drugs in his life. Among other things, he mentioned cocaine, saying

that didn’t do anything for me, it was more a social thing. It gave me a sense of belonging and probably also made me feel different to the way I was feeling.

He said that of all the drugs he had tried, marijuana had been almost the only one which helped him mentally. Ayahuasca also helped him a lot, as it contributed to his processing of traumas and pain from the past.

As we reported recently, Dr Gábor Máté has been strongly criticised many times for being “an outspoken advocate of drug decriminalisation.” In the past, he has regularly used Ayahuasca with his patients, for which he has received warnings multiple times.

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British press attacks Hungarian writer due to upcoming interview with Prince Harry

Máté Gábor writer critisised bbecause of his methots when interviewing the Duke Harry

Hungarian writer Gábor Máté has had the honour of working with Prince Harry on his recently published memoir. However, after the interview was scheduled, he was targeted by the British press. The specialist has also come under attack for his working methods and sharp remarks on the Palestinians.

Hungarian-born Canadian doctor, writer, psychotherapist and trauma expert Gábor Máté shared in a Facebook post on 25 February that he scheduled an interview with Prince Harry on 4 March in connection with his memoir Spare. The book was published on 10 January 2023 and is the fastest-selling non-fiction book of all time but has been repeatedly criticised in the press. Now, articles in the British press condemning Gábor Máté’s methods appeared after he announced the talk. As the article points out, there is a shocking story behind the expert’s statement, which many consider to be anti-Palestinian.

According to DailyMail, Máté is an outspoken advocate of drug decriminalisation and has previously used the Amazonian ayahuasca plant to treat his patients suffering from mental illness. The psychedelic plant, which is consumed as a brewed drink, causes hallucinations and other side effects, including vomiting.

The Hungarian writer expresses his views widely

According to the journal, he regularly expresses his views not only in his field of expertise but also outside it. One example is the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which appeared as a topic on a podcast by comedian Russell Brand, in which Gábor Máté was a guest.

“There’s no way you could have ever created a Jewish state without oppressing and expelling the local population,” he said on the topic. Maté called Gaza the “world’s largest outdoor prison.” “Given those conditions, of course, people will go for extremist leadership,” he added, referring to the 2006 election victory of Hamas.

He says that the trauma he suffered as a child still affects his life as an adult, and he has an intense emotional reaction to the threat of abandonment. Born in Budapest in 1944, the writer and psychotherapist was separated from her mother as an infant to save his life, while his father was subjected to forced labour by the Nazis. The academic described how he was unable to look at his mother when they were finally reunited due to feelings of abandonment, rage and despair, writes DailyMail.

According to Index, of course, this does not validate his strong statements and his working methods. Prince Harry’s decision is not surprising, however, it is a further sign of his commitment to therapeutic healing.

The event, organised jointly by Prince Harry and his publisher Penguin Random House, will take place online at 5 PM UK time on Saturday 4 March. Therefore, anyone can join in. Registration is open until 1 March. People can send their questions and get an answer live. Tickets are available at PrinceHarryMemoir.com.

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Interview with Erik Haupt, Hungarian Ambassador to Greece

Interview with Erik Haupt, Hungarian Ambassador to Greece

Today, we bring our readers an interview with Erik Haupt, the Hungarian Ambassador to Greece, in which he discusses the amicable relationship between the two countries, their distinct approaches to the energy crisis, and the inevitable culture shocks one may encounter when relocating to Greece. Mr Haupt also shares intriguing historical insights about renowned Greek nationals who significantly influenced Hungarian culture. You’ll be surprised to discover that one of Hungary’s most important wine regions and the iconic Chain Bridge in Budapest were once associated with influential Greek families who settled in Hungary.

What are the most significant differences between the two countries for an average citizen, considering aspects like traffic, cost of living, general public sentiment and job opportunities?

Both nations boast strong historical backgrounds and share common European roots. Therefore, Hungarian visitors are unlikely to encounter striking culture shocks in Greece. The cost of living is more or less equivalent, although, in my view, Greece remains slightly more expensive than Hungary. However, these differences have notably diminished in recent years. Of course, there are many differences when it comes to the locals’ mentality, perspectives on life and attitudes toward religion and family. One thing that can shock visitors though, especially in Athens, is the heavy traffic. Notably, heavy traffic in areas like Athens, differing traffic cultures and adherence to rules may be baffling at first, especially for visitors from Northern Europe, adapting to Greece’s more laid-back lifestyle. 

Concerning job opportunities, Hungary holds an advantage with the presence of major international companies like AUDI and BMW. While our country’s industry is more developed, Greece has made considerable progress recently.

Did you experience any culture shock when you moved to Greece

Personally, I encountered no nuisances, already being familiar with Greek culture. I believe Hungarians can easily adapt and identify with the Greek way of life. There are minor differences in some areas, such as transportation. In terms of working style, the prevalent “Perimene” or “we have time for that” attitude differs from the more immediate approach at home. Greek people embrace a more laid-back approach to life, yet in large-scale international projects, Greece consistently excels, despite initial appearances of chaos.

Can you mention a number of famous people in the world of Hungarian art, cinema or other
fields who are of Greek origin?

While not many instantly come to mind, there is a good number of people who left their mark on Hungarian culture The role of the Greeks in the wine trade is indisputable. For instance, the Tokaj Museum, in the heart of the legendary wine region, was built around 1790 by the Karácsony family, which was of Greek origin. The Greek Sina family is also worth mentioning. George Sina’s name is associated with the construction of the Chain Bridge. His son, Simon, also contributed to the establishment of several national institutions, such as the Hungarian Land Loan Institute as well as to the development of railways and steamships. Besides, he stood for many important social causes. Numerous public schools, the National Museum, the nursery school, the nursery hospital, orphanages, the Institute for the Blind, the Academy of Commerce, the National Theatre, the National Casino, the Lipótváros Church, the House of Fine Arts and above all the Palace of the MTA proclaim his name as a benefactor or generous donor.

Read more: Cheaper food prices in Greece than in Hungary? – PHOTOS

In the years following the Civil War in Greece, a large influx of Greek communist refugees fled to Hungary, where they received aid and housing. There is even a Greek village called Belogiannis founded by Greek refugees in the country. However, many people moved back to Greece once the political turmoil settled down. How big is the current Greek community living in Hungary?

There is still a statistically significant Greek community residing in Hungary, and it is no coincidence that they have their own municipal government and representatives in the Parliament, along with their own schools and churches. The Greek community is one of the 13 officially recognised nationalities that boast their own advocate in the country.

And how many Hungarians live in Greece, approximately?

We do not have exact figures, but we estimate the Hungarian community in Greece consists of a few thousand individuals. Estimating its size is challenging due to a lack of organised community initiatives and mixed marriages. Most Hungarians living here are trying to integrate into their Greek families and society as a whole instead of living in an expat bubble.

What is the current relationship between Greece and Hungary at the government level, regarding past and future collaborations? And what kind of Hungarian products are available in Greek supermarkets?

The two countries nurture an amicable relationship. There is a common interest in many areas (persecuted Christians, protection of minorities, the enlargement of the Western Balkans and energy cooperation), which aids our work. In the area of migration, we face similar difficulties in many respects. There are a number of Hungarian food products such as PICK winter salami and some Hungarian wines that can be found on the shelves, to the delight of customers.

Throughout the holiday season, the entire city of Athens was swimming in Christmas lights while Budapest went completely dark to cut back on expenses. If you were to invite a Greek friend to Hungary, what would you highlight about the country?

Regarding the energy crisis, Greece and Hungary are not equally affected, given Greece’s less dependency on Russian energy. Hungary faces additional challenges due to its lack of maritime connection. In response to the second part of your question, Hungary has a lot to offer Greek tourists: a vibrant cultural scene, spas, a booming gastronomic tourism – to name just a few.

And what would you recommend to a Hungarian tourist who is planning his/her first trip to Greece?

Greece is an absolutely safe tourist destination for travellers. For Hungarian tourists visiting Greece, besides the stunning beaches, exploring rich historical sites and the country’s cultural heritage spanning thousands of years is highly recommended. The other advice is more practical; in case of any trouble/travel issues, save the contact details of the consular section of the embassy, or download the Hungarian consular service’s “Utazom” app, which is now available on both Android and IOS phones. It is best advised to always check the current situation and the latest news before planning any trip.

Read more: Government revokes crucial Hungarian certificate affecting all travellers

Interview with Kosovan Ambassador Budima on the Kosovan-Hungarian relationships and many more

Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima

We interviewed Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima, head of the Kosovan embassy in Hungary. During the interview she touched her possible Hungarian ancestors, Kosovan politics and history, the heritage of Hungarian national hero János Hunyadi, a future Budapest-Pristina flight, and the Hungarian attractions and dishes she would recommend for her friends.

Daily News Hungary (DNH): This year marks the 15th anniversary of Kosovo’s independence. What has the last 15 years been like?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: Last 15 years were full of hard work, reforms, state building processes, sacrifices, remarkable successes, but of course, there were also many disappointments and challenges! Kosova declared independence on 17 February 2008, after decade of talks and negotiations led by the UN and undoubtedly, after our liberation struggle, our just cause for self-determination and solidarity of the democratic world. In 2010, the International Court of Justice ruled that Kosovo’s Declaration of Independence did not violate international law or UNSC 1244.

Today, Kosova is the newest and youngest country in Europe, with 70% of the population under 35 years old. It is a progressive, pro-European and democratic state, recognised by majority, 117 of UN member states, by 22 out of 27 EU member states and by 26 out of 30 NATO member states. We are proof that democracy and economic development go hand in hand, with only last year’s 4% growth, exports +23%, foreign direct investments +47%. We keep improving our position in the Corruption Perceptions Index, the same for press freedom. We are in the first place in the Western Balkans for the rule of law.

Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima
H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima. Photo: Kosovan embassy

Apart from yet having to apply for a visa to travel to most of European countries, our artists, film directors, athletes, writers, journalists keep making us proud by winning internationally recognised prices. As an example, our judoka Majlinda Kelmendi is one of the most accomplished judokas in the world. She won gold in the Rio Olympics in 2016, in what was a historic moment, since it was the first Olympics where Kosova participated as an independent country. Since then, our judokas brought home two more Olympics gold medals. As Dua Lipa, Kosova’s Honorary Ambassador said, “Give us a chance, and we will excel”.

DNH: And how has your career progressed since you came to Budapest as Head of Mission?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: I arrived in Budapest at the end of November 2021. I was lucky that the isolation caused by pandemic was ending, hence, I had the opportunity to immediately start my duties and join in the activities and in creating contacts and expanding our circle of friends and partners. So far, I am humbled with the progress and achievements in bringing our two countries even closer.

Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima
Photo: Kosovan embassy

Being posted to Budapest, for me as a carrier diplomat was a privilege and yet another opportunity to grow professionally and personally while exploring and learning from such a remarkable country and people. However, as this is my first posting as a Head of Mission, I can confirm that apart from the privilege and the honour that this position brings, it also brings much more responsibilities. Being a Head of Mission of a small Embassy, I am improving also my financial, procurement and office management skills. To sum up, for me Hungary will be the Mission closest to my heart, as it the first mission I am leading and it happens to be in a friendly and exceptional country Hungary! Might be a topic for yet another interview the coincidence that my family name means Budai, as my ancestors lived and worked in Buda sometimes by the end of the 19th century.

Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima
Photo: Kosovan embassy

DNH: The ‘number plate’ issue have popped up in Hungarian media quite a few times recently. What exactly is it about?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: In 1999, when Kosova was liberated, majority of Serbs continued to have license plates of cars that were produced, issued and brought from Serbia. These license plates are an old legacy of the Milosevic regime, produced in Serbian to continue to be used only in Kosova. However, after talks in Brussels, finally, on 15 January 2018, Serbia no longer had to produce or issue such license plates, and at the same time, in September 2021, all deadlines for the use of such license plates and those of UNMIK – the United Nations Mission in Kosovo, have expired. So, since September of last year, even according to Serbia’s commitments to Brussels and the agreements, they no longer had to have these license plates. And no country, I assume not even Hungary, would accept it if a minority in the country drove with German or Serbian license plates for years.

The vast majority of Serbs in the north of our country have no problem with Kosovo license plates. A small group is instrumentalized from Belgrade. The armed people behind the barricades are not interested in human rights, but in territory. They want to protect the north of Kosovo as a lawless zone. We have destroyed six drug labs in the northern municipalities and cryptocurrency production labs that have taken advantage of the free electricity. Nobody pays electricity bills there.

Everyone, each and every citizen of Kosova, no matter of the ethnicity or any other difference, is equal and have the same rights and obligations towards the rule of law. Moreover, Serbs who agreed to convert their car plates to the legal ones were exempted from VAT, from customs and excise duty, amounting to around 5000 euros per car. We are on the side of the people, not of criminals and violators of laws or foreign regimes and interests.

Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima
Photo: Kosovan embassy

DNH: In recent years, both Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó have stressed that relations between Serbia and Hungary are at a historic high point. This certainly has an impact on relations between Kosovo and Hungary. How would you describe the relationship between the Orbán government and your government?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: Albanians and Hungarians share an ancient tradition of friendly and cordial relations, dating back to the time of the strategic partnership and alliance between our National Hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, and the Hungarian National Hero János Hunyadi. Beyond the historical aspect, the stability of Kosova is viewed as very important for Hungary. The European integration of Western Balkans is of an utmost interest for Hungary.

Hungary has helped and continues to help Kosovo in many processes. We are working and collaborating on many initiatives and projects of common interest. While Hungarian soldiers guarantee peace in Kosovo, we are grateful that our students are learning and receiving knowledge from the best Hungarian universities, and that we have a hard-working and well-integrated diaspora here. Strengthening and intensifying relations between the two countries is our commitment and mutual interest.

DNH: Not long ago, Foreign Minister Szijjártó stated that the Hungarian government would not support Kosovo’s admission to the Council of Europe. How did your government comment on this statement? Does your country still have a chance to be granted accession?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: We are counting on the support of our partners and friends so that the vote for our admission to the Council of Europe (CoE), takes place as soon as possible. And we have support for the membership, but we still have to go through some procedures.

In September 2022, the Secretariat of the CoE issued a legal interpretation on the application of the Republic of Kosovo, which clearly confirms that there is no legal obstacle to the membership of Kosova as a full member of the CoE.

Citizens of the democratic states of Europe have the undeniable right to access the instruments of the CoE, especially the European Court of Human Rights (Strasbourg Court). Hence, other processes that are not the standards of the CoE cannot condition this right of the citizens of the most democratic state in the region, with extraordinary progress in the rule of law and justice reforms.

It is important to clarify that there are three stages of voting for a country’s membership in the CoE. In the first phase, the Committee of Ministers starts the membership procedure. In the second phase, the Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) of the CoE sets relevant standards and gives the recommendation for membership. In the third stage, the Committee of Ministers decides after the opinion of the PACE.

The application of the Republic of Kosovo is in the first phase. Any possible conditionality at this stage would be against the Statute of the CoE, the membership practices and the values of the organization. The Government of the Republic of Kosovo is committed joining organizations from which all our citizens have benefits. The process of membership in the CoE is irreversible and we count on our partners and friends, including Hungary, to support us so the first phase of the process passes as soon as possible.

DNH: Is there any economic cooperation between the two countries? Can you mention any successful Hungarian companies operating in Kosovo?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: Although we still have to succeed in convincing big investors from Hungary to come to Kosova, there are already 58 Hungarian successful companies with a capital of 42 million euros. It is important that, 15 years since the independence, the positive trend of export-import growth between Kosovo and Hungary continues even today. We are very positive that this year, the volume of trade may set a historical record and exceed one hundred million euros. Last year the volume of bilateral trade increased to 96.1 million euros.

My country is very much committed to deepen bilateral trade relations with Hungary. I am thrilled that on 2nd and 3rd February, here in Budapest, the second session of Kosovo-Hungary Joint Committee on Economic Development took place, 5 years since the first Session held in Prishtina, in 2017. A new protocol of cooperation is signed with important steps and projects to be taken for increasing not only trade exchanges, but also collaboration in many sectors of mutual interest. Important that on the margins of JEC Session, HEPA, with assistance of their sister agency Kosova Investment and Enterprise Support Agency organized a Business Forum with B2B meetings, with 40 Hungarian and 15 Kosovar companies participating, what reflects the intention to strengthen cooperation. A new MoU between KIESA and HEPA was signed too and I am very positive that we will soon have concrete results of such collaboration.

DNH: One of the keys to closer cooperation between the two countries is direct flights between the two capitals. Can we hope that there will soon be a direct Budapest-Pristina flight?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: In the past two years Prishtina International Airport has had one of the best performances in the region, and year by year is having an exponential growth. Last year, the number of passengers reached around 3 million according to my information. In parallel to this growth and the Government’s interest to expand the network and flow of the flights from and to Kosova, there are concrete plans and steps being taken to increase number of flights and number of new destinations as well (last year in the season a new destination was introduced to Warsaw from Prishtina). I believe that soon we can see developments in this area, including here with Budapest as well.

DNH: It is worth to note that a series of events is planned in Hungary this year to mark the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kosovo and Hungary. Could you list the major events?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: Hungary is one of the first countries to recognize the independence of Kosova on 19 March 2008, for what people of my country will forever be grateful. Diplomatic relations were officially established on 27 June 2008, while the Embassy of Kosovo in Budapest began work in March 2010.

We started this festive year with a premiere screening in Budapest of Sundance Triple Award-Winner and Oscar shortlisted movie​ HIVE. It was a great honour to cooperate, for the first time, with Urania National Film Theatre, and bring this moving and inspiring true story to the Hungarian movie enthusiasts.

We will continue our festivities with a reception for the Independence Day for our Hungarian friends and colleagues, and yet another for our diaspora and students. We will also celebrate the establishment of first ever twining cities partnership between a city of Kosova and a city of Hungary. Moreover, also for the first time, we will have a movie shown as part of the Francophone Film Days in Budapest.

We plan in participating in various cultural and trade fairs and festivals through the year, as well as organizing a couple of cultural activities open to public with the aim to bring the 15 years old Kosova’s achievements and progresses to the Hungarian public in a sign of gratitude for their friendship and support.

DNH: What are the unique touristic highlights of Kosovo that only exist there? (atmosphere, gastronomy, prime tourist spots etc)?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: Kosova does not have a coast, same as Hungary, hence it took her some time, apart from being rebuild after the war, to get its deserved place as a country very much worth of the visit. Nowadays, prestigious magazines, such as National Geographic, highlight its natural wonders, rich and diverse cultural heritage, traditions, gastronomy and the unique yet ancient generous hospitality as per the old-age adage that “the house of the Albanian belongs to
God, the guest, and the master of the house”.

However, being the country with youngest population in Europe, it is the youth, their energy, creativity, easy to communicate with in various foreign languages, what impresses the tourist visiting Kosova the most. Then, as reviewed by visitors, Kosova is considered a country where one can have the best macchiato in the world, that’s maybe the coffee culture is very old or it has to do that many baristas have university degrees. Being myself from the western part of Kosova, one cannot not mention here also the natural and unique Rugova Canyon, 25km long and 1000m deep, considered one of Europe’s longest and deepest canyons.

DNH: I am sure you already know Hungary well. What would you tell your friends in Kosovo about Hungarians and Hungary’s attractions?

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: I can say that during my first year here, I did bike between cities, villages and around lakes, walked a lot and climbed some hills. During all these travels and encounters, I can say that the people are the richness of the country, with their politeness and modesty make you feel welcomed everywhere you go. When we add to this the culture, traditions, architecture and yes, thermal baths, Hungary indeed is a great place to be.

To be very frank with you, many of my friends and family members have seen and enjoyed visiting Hungary before me, hence I learned a lot from them and I was so much looking forward to discover it myself. Kosova and Hungary are very close, geographically, historically and traditionally, and I wish this friendship will get even stronger and we will have even more Hungarians visiting Kosova and visa versa!

DNH: In terms of gastronomy, there are certainly a number of similar dishes in both countries. What are they? And what Hungarian delicacy have you tasted here that people in Kosovo would appreciate too.

H. E. Ambassador Gjeneza Budima: Oh yes, I can confirm that if you go to Kosova you will find very similar dishes to Gulyás like Gjyveq, and many rich meat dishes common to your gastronomy. Pickled vegetables like cucumbers, peppers and cabbage are a side dish that are part of our everyday meals too.

Her Excellency Ambassador Gjeneza Budima
Photo: Kosovan embassy

Hungarian delicacy? Kürtőskalács it is! Whoever brings Kürtőskalács to Kosova will have a guaranteed success. I just cannot resist it whenever I walk around the city streets. Its smell and taste, together with its history and tradition would be a highly appreciated by everyone in Kosova. Let’s bring Kürtőskalács to Kosova! And I would not be surprised to have it next time I am back home as the country is so vibrant and developing with such a speed that every time I go back there is something new to explore!

Interview with Palestinian Ambassador Dr Elhusseini on Israel, Hungarian-Palestinian relations and many others

HE Ambassador Dr Fadi Elhusseini 2023

We interviewed His Excellency Ambassador Dr Fadi Elhusseini, head of the Palestinian embassy in Hungary. During the interview he touched on relations with Israel, Hungarian-Palestinian cooperation, tourism, culture and many other interesting topics: 

Daily News Hungary (DNH): In what part of Palestine were you born? And what was the most memorable experience you had as a child in relation to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict?

HE Ambassador Dr Fadi Elhusseini: I was born in the city of Gaza. I grew up in a fully occupied city, watching occupation soldiers touring around the city; willing to bully, detain or harass anyone because simply had the weapons. I can recall my most memorable experience from my trip to Egypt (through Rafah Crossing). Since the occupation controls everything, one has to be checked when he leaves or returns to Palestine. Every time you see the soldiers checking your passport and documents, asking personal questions and making you feel uncomfortable or subject to arrest at any moment – these are things I could never erase from memory. Experiencing discrimination to the core; when seeing others – none Palestinians – able to pass, drive or walk when you can’t simply because you are Palestinian is another life-defying experience.

DNH: And how did you become a diplomat? It must have been challenging to grow up and receive a quality education in such a conflict-ridden place.

Ambassador Elhusseini: Challenges are always there when you are under occupation. However, I tried to face all the hardships and acquire an ample amount of education and knowledge to better serve the cause. I finished my BA in Economics & Political Science in Egypt. I obtained my MA in International Commerce Laws and policies from Italy and finished my Ph.D. in International Relations and History from England, not to mention scores of training courses in relevant fields. Believing that I would serve Palestine in the field of diplomacy, I joined, in 1998, what was known back then as the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation – which acted as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Working in different departments, and serving Palestine in different embassies, my diplomatic career evolved further and I had the fortune to serve Palestine here in Hungary.

HE Ambassador Dr Fadi Elhusseini
Source Palestine Embassy, Hungary

DNH: You are well aware of the conditions there. Aren’t people, whether Palestinian or Israeli, tired of decades of warfare?

Ambassador Elhusseini: I don’t believe any people on earth would wish to live in such conditions. Palestinians are like any other people in the world; they wish to live peacefully, enjoy their families, celebrate, sing, travel and experience freedom. However, sometimes things are imposed on you and your options become limited. Living under occupation wasn’t an option… seeking freedom eventually is not an option either.

DNH: What do you think would be the three most important points of a possible agreement between the two countries that would result in a much calmer climate?

Well, your question is so much to the point. I will tell you the magical recipe that would not only result in a more stable climate but would also resolve the entire conflict: END ILLEGAL OCCUPATION. The moment Israel realises that ending its occupation is the key element in the whole equation, not only Palestine but the whole region will have a chance for a brighter future. Opportunities for stability and prosperity will not exclude anyone. The rest are just details and repercussions.

DNH: We know very well that the Hungarian and Israeli governments are very close. What about political and business relations between Hungary and Palestine?

Ambassador Elhusseini:  On politics, relations have been and will always be good, yet differences in views and assessments can occur. Palestine and Hungary have been always on good terms. Palestine opened an office in Budapest in 1975 and the office enjoyed diplomatic status in 1982. In 1988, Hungary became one of the first nations to recognise Palestine and the office became a fully-fledged embassy. Both nations share a many common values, similar experiences and views on plenty of issues, particularly what relates to occupation, population and expatriates (refugees), family and even attempts to nullify national sovereignty by imposing certain educational conditions. This background explains the Palestinian dismay by certain statements and positions that were neither backed by common values and shared background nor based on international law and UN resolutions. On Business relations, the figures for trade and investments are modest when compared to our rich history and relations. However, we are working ardently to change this unsatisfactory condition and soon the new numbers will be louder than any words.

HE Ambassador Dr Fadi Elhusseini 2023
Source: Palestine Embassy, Hungary

DNH: Can you mention a few examples of their cultural cooperation?

Ambassador Elhusseini:  In the embassy of Palestine, we believe that culture is a universal language. We reckon that introducing our culture and history to Hungarians is a duty and introducing Hungarian culture to Palestinians is a must-learning experience. We work closely with Hungary’s representative office in Palestine to develop cultural cooperation between the two countries, either through agreements or cultural events. In Hungary, we have participated in and organised numerous cultural activities throughout the past two years. We use Social Media platforms as well to introduce our culture, history, traditions and much more. Many events that are aimed at introducing our culture are scheduled in the upcoming period and ads will be posted so everyone can come and get a taste of the Palestinian culture. In addition, Palestine enjoys educational scholarships (Stipendium hungaricum) and every year we have Palestinian students either joining or graduating from Hungarian universities. We are happy that each student returning to Palestine is taking with him or her memories and experience in Hungary. In return, Palestine offers scholarships to Hungary and we do always encourage Hungarians to join. This is how we build more bridges between our people.

DNH: Palestine has a number of biblical sites. Could you list the most notable ones for us?

Ambassador Elhusseini: Palestine – all of Palestine is a biblical site – it is the holy land… it is the birthplace of Jesus and it is where Jesus lived, walked and preached. Aside from trees, mountains, routes and places where Jesus lived or walked through, I would say the church of the Nativity in Bethlehem (where Jesus was born), the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City of Jerusalem (contains two sites considered holy in Christianity: the site where Jesus was crucified and Jesus’s empty tomb, which is where he was buried and resurrected) and also the Mount of Temptation in the city of Jericho (Christian tradition identifies it as the location of the temptation of Jesus).

DNH: What other tourist destinations do you suggest to Hungarian tourists?

Ambassador Elhusseini: I would always recommend visiting Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, the third most important site for Muslims where Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) reached at the end of his night journey, or Isra, from the sacred mosque of Makkah. So, in addition to Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Jericho, visit Ramallah, a vibrant city where history embraces modernity, where you can admire modern shopping malls and old city markets, where a tourist can enjoy classic music and Orchestra next to modern nightlife. Throughout the day, you can also visit museums and exhibitions. There are other cities where tourists can find ancient places and business hubs like Hebron, Nablus, Gaza and Jenin.

DNH: There is no international airport in Palestine. How can we get there from Budapest?

Ambassador Elhusseini: The best way is through Jordan. Flights to Jordan are frequent and the airport is one hour from the borders. If the tourists decide to take this route, they will be guaranteed to touch the lowest point on earth and see the Mount of Temptation (Jericho) upon entering Palestine.

HE Ambassador Dr Fadi Elhusseini 2023
Source: Palestine Embassy, Hungary

DNH: Palestine and Hungary are relatively far apart. Do you think Palestinians know some tidbits about Hungary?

Ambassador Elhusseini: There is some knowledge but not enough. I believe that much work is needed to build bridges and to make the Palestinians know more about Hungary, its history and culture. As such, tourism must be boosted, and in parallel, exchange programmes, scholarships, institutional visits, cultural activities and films must be organised and this is what we are working on.

DNH: How would you describe the Palestinian community in Hungary? 

Ambassador Elhusseini: The Palestinian community consists of a few hundred souls, in addition to hundreds of students. We have Palestinian businessmen, engineers, doctors and other individuals who work in different professions. What I can assure you is that despite the fact that the Palestinian community is not big in size – compared to other communities– it is a vibrant, and active part of Hungarian society. Many of them were honoured by the Hungarian government for their extraordinary contributions, and others were listed among the most influential personalities in Hungary.

DNH: What are the three things you will miss most about Hungary once your posting is over?

Ambassador Elhusseini: Being away from Hungary has become hard already. However, I would say that the people and their warmth are the first things I will miss. The tranquility of walking along the shore of the Danube is another thing I will never forget. The beauty of the city and the essence of a rich history that rises from every castle, cathedral or building are definitely things that will accompany me for the rest of my life.

 

Masato Otaka
Read alsoJapan’s ambassador to Hungary on mutual relations, Bartók-Kodály-Liszt music, North Korea and more – INTERVIEW

Orbán: EU wants a change of government in Hungary, we entered the age of dangers

Viktor Orbán interview

It is possible that 2022 will be remembered as the year Hungary entered “the age of dangers”, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in an interview to public radio on Friday, adding that the country had responded proactively.

After the pandemic came the war in Ukraine, followed by an energy crisis, the prime minister said. EU sanctions, he added, caused significant inflation, “and migration pressure is growing once more at our borders”. But Hungary has responded to all these dangers proactively, Orbán said. “We didn’t freeze up; we didn’t want to evade, but we’ve built up defensive positions,” he said. Meanwhile, the prime minister called for the abolition of “failed EU sanctions”.

Orbán noted that the cost of energy imports skyrocketed to 17 billion euros from 7 billion, and the government established a fund for protecting caps on household energy bills up to the threshold of average consumption. The government did not pass higher energy prices to households, but rather Hungarian families receive an energy subsidy averaging 181,000 forints each month, he noted. Had the advice of liberal economists and the Hungarian left wing been taken, a minimum of 1 million families would have gone bankrupt, the prime minister insisted. He said the government would handle any new threats that arise this year in the same proactive spirit.

Regarding sanctions, Orbán said that “someone in Brussels” should finally admit to having “messed up”. Without sanctions, energy prices would drop instantly and inflation would be halved, he said, adding that there was no sign of this happening. Only Germany or France could sway the EU on this matter, he said.

To pay for energy subsidies, companies that make excessive profits out of high inflation and higher energy prices must make a commensurate contribution, he said, adding that the companies had been made to understand that this was a temporary measure. “In Hungary, they understand this,” Orbán said, adding that western European governments did not enjoy the same position of strength to enact such a measure.

European citizens are the victims of the failed sanctions policy and the war in Ukraine, he said, adding that Europe was the biggest loser of the conflict economically speaking. Commenting on the EU decision to withdraw Hungary’s Erasmus funding in 2024, Orbán said the government would not allow students “to be the victims of any decision in Brussels”, and the Hungarian budget would make up the difference in any lost Erasmus funds.

“Those with children say: ‘What kind of people are these?’ Hungary and Brussels may very well have a dispute, but what kind of person takes revenge on another person’s child?” He added that there were people in Brussels prepared to settle a political dispute by taking revenge on Hungarian young people.

The prime minister said EU objections to the Hungarian education system were “nonsense”, and politicians, he added, often sat on the board of trustees of universities in western Europe, too.

“They want a change of government,”

Orbán said. “Brussels has a vision of the future that is at odds with what Hungarians think. They [people in Brussels] think Europe must change, should be more diverse and migrants should be accepted,” he said, adding that so far the EU had not succeeded in forcing the Hungarian government to follow suit.

“We have our own ideas about the future and how to raise children,” Orbán said, adding that the EU believed that civil and social movements should play a big role in bringing up children. “We think that this is our job, the job of parents.” “They want to take as many as powers as possible to Brussels” in an effort to “build a large European empire with provinces rather than member states”, Orbán said. “Since the Hungarian government consistently promotes its philosophy and Hungary’s interests,” they want the government replaced, he said. “Voters decided otherwise,” he added.
“Irrespective of the outcome of the election, Brussels is working to force us to do as they think appropriate,” Orbán said, adding that “all conflicts should be assessed in that context”.

Meanwhile, he said Hungary’s financial reserves had “never been as high as the government has amassed over the past three months”, Orbán said. He said the reserves were at a “record high”, and “not only is it impossible to corner Hungary, but we will manage without them (the EU)”. “Of course, with them it would be simpler and we could progress faster, but they are misguided in Brussels if they think the sun will not rise without them.” “They are facing that fact now,” he added.

On another subject, Orbán said the primary political task was to build an economic system in which “everybody can find employment”. “So far we have managed: one million more people have jobs now than in 2010,” he said. Despite being “a year of dangers”, 2022 saw the highest ever employment figures, he said. Those figures “will even get higher in 2023”, he said, adding that job protection was one of the highest priorities for the coming year.

The prime minister said the real value of wages would grow in the 2022-2023 period. He called for “ambitious goals” for 2023, while he said the crisis should be managed while maintaining the country’s “great national objectives”. The government will further develop rather than whittle down family assistance as well as job protection mechanisms, he said.

Orbán also mentioned as important priorities reducing inflation “to a single digit” by the end of the year and maintaining economic growth.

Japan’s ambassador to Hungary on mutual relations, Bartók-Kodály-Liszt music, North Korea and more – INTERVIEW

Masato Otaka

We interviewed His Excellency Masato OTAKA, the Japanese ambassador to Budapest. In the interview he talked about Hungarian-Japanese relations, Hungary’s treasures, North Korea and many other interesting topics:

Daily News Hungary (DNH): Let’s start with a little introduction. Could you tell us a bit about yourself? How did you get into the world of diplomacy?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: I joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in 1986. Before assuming my current post in December 2020, I served in various capacities such as Deputy-Director for International Legal Affairs (2005), Director of Southeast Economic Partnership Division (2005-2007), Director of Southwest Asia Division (2007-2009), Deputy Press Secretary/Deputy Director-General in charge of Press and Public Diplomacy (2016-2017) and Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Diplomacy (2019-2020).

My overseas posts included First Secretary in charge of the Security Council U.N. Mission (New York, 1998-2001), Economic Minister of the Embassy of Japan in Thailand (2009-2012), Minister for Public Affairs of the Embassy of Japan in the U.S.A. (2012-2016) and finally, I was honored to be appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Hungary in 2020.

DNH: What is it like living in Budapest, so far away from home? What are the biggest differences between the two countries for an average citizen? (in terms of traffic, living, food, etc.)

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: Hungarian cuisine has an excellent reputation worldwide. Traditional Hungarian cuisine, with ingredients such as meat, seasoned vegetables, fruit, freshly baked bread, cheese and honey, is well suited to Japanese tastes.

Moreover, the public transport system in Budapest is reliable. I myself often use buses and trams when I go out for private matters, and it is very convenient to get anywhere in the city by them. In particular, tram 4 and 6, which circulate between Buda and Pest, run 24 hours a day, which is very useful. In my opinion, Budapest is a city of great convenience in this respect, as a public transport system that operates 24 hours a day does not exist in Japan.

DNH: What is the current relationship between Japan and Hungary at the government level, regarding past and future meetings?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: I should first mention that 2019 was a milestone year that marked 150 years since Japan concluded the “Treaty of Amity and Commerce” with the Austro-Hungarian monarchy (1869). In this monumental year marking 150 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Hungary, Her Imperial Highness Princess Kako of Akishino made her first official overseas visit to Hungary and Austria from September 15 to 25 in 2019.

In the same year, Prime Minister Orbán and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Szijjártó visited Japan, held a summit meeting and foreign ministers’ meeting with a Japanese counterpart respectively. Moreover, former President of Hungary, Áder, attended the H.E. Emperor Naruhito’s Enthronement ceremony held in the same year.

More recently, in October 2022, the Minister of Culture and Innovation, János Csák, visited Japan and met with Japan’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Nagaoka to exchange views on cooperation in the fields of education, science and technology and culture between the two countries. Also in December, the Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office, Gulyás visited Japan and met Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno and Minister for Foreign Affairs Hayashi. Hungary and Japan has been able to maintain frequent and meaningful high-level exchanges in recent years, even in the context of Covid-19.

I would emphatically state that Japan is placing great importance on Hungary as an investment destination, with the volume of direct investment from Japan in Hungary at the end of 2020 amounting to approximately EUR 1.5 billion, accounting for about 1.8 percent of all foreign direct investment in Hungary. From a long-term perspective, many Japanese companies have been operating in Hungary since shortly after “Rendszerváltás” (the change of regime) in Hungary, making Japan the largest aggressive investor in Asia.

Moreover, importance of Japan-Europe relations is increasing under the current international circumstances, and Japan hopes to expand its cooperation in a variety of areas, including regional affairs and the ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’, with European countries and with Hungary in particular.

In the current situation where the foundations of the international order are being threatened by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, it is important for the international community to raise a united voice that it cannot accept unilateral attempt to violate the international order under the UN Charter and change the status quo by force. Meanwhile, as Hungary has suffered tremendous hardship as a direct neighbour of Ukraine, Japan has provided financial assistance to Hungary through international organisations such as UNHCR, IOM and IFRC.

 

DNH: After the communist era, in 1991, “Our Car” (“A Mi Autónk”), Suzuki, arrived from Japan. How did the economic and business relations between the two countries develop during the past 31 years?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: There has been large volumes of overseas direct investment by Japanese companies in Hungary, with more than 180 companies currently operating in the country. Investments (stock) by Japanese companies amounted to EUR 1.5 billion in Hungary. In the last 30 years, exports and imports between the two countries have both increased more than sixfold.

The increased exports from Japan to Hungary are machinery and transport equipment, while the increased imports from Hungary to Japan are cars and electrical equipment compared to 30 years ago. The Japan-EU EPA, which is an economic partnership agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation by liberalising trade, investment and other economic activities, also applies between Japan and Hungary, one of members of the European Union.

DNH: What kind of Hungarian products can you find on supermarket shelves in Japan?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: Hungarian acacia honey, registered as “Hungarikum” in 2014, is often found in Japanese supermarkets. The honey is very popular among the Japanese consumers as a safe and tasty product.

In addition, Hungarian noble wines, especially Tokaji Aszú, are well known in Japan and are available through wine shops and electronic commerce websites. Hungarian wines are exquisitely tasty and therefore have the potential to become popular in Japan.

In addition, there is one more thing to mention that traditional Hungarian cuisine, gulyás soup, has been acknowledged as a typical Hungarian dish among the Japanese. Although gulyás is served in several Hungarian restaurants in Japan, many Japanese people wish to try authentic Hungarian gulyás. Those who travel to Hungary from our country always look forward to eating the real gulyás.

DNH: I cannot leave out this question: how does the current energy crisis affect you? As I have read, some business leaders and experts believe Japan will not survive without Russian gas and oil. Can you elaborate a bit on your country’s situation?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: Japan has been diversifying its energy sources as a result of careful consideration. Japan’s natural gas imports – mainly LNG – are diverse, including Australia (about 40 percent), the largest exporter, as well as Qatar and the USA. Imports of natural gas from Russia account for only 9 percent. Japan’s oil imports are diverse as well, including from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Imports of oil from Russia account for 5 percent. Further, we have implemented many energy effective measures.

DNH: The fact that North Korea is getting more fearless may also mean that it is becoming more of a threat to South Korea and Japan. Is it possible a deal with Kim Jong Un? Or is it time to prepare for a possible conflict?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: Recently, North Korea has repeatedly launched ballistic missiles with extremely high frequency and in new ways. This is yet another violation of relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions and a flagrant violation of Japan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This act represents a serious threat to peace and security in the region and worldwide.

Japan urges North Korea to comply immediately with UN Security Council resolutions by abandoning all its nuclear weapons, other weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programmes in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner and cease immediately all related activities.

Japan will continue to fully implement the relevant UNSC resolutions and aim for the complete denuclearisation of North Korea, coordinating closely with the US and South Korea and cooperating with the international community.

DNH: Let’s move on to a less serious topic. Your Facebook page clearly shows that you are a fan of art. Can you tell us some of your Hungarian favourites, whether in music or other disciplines?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: Indeed. I love music and arts. Hungary is a culturally rich country that has produced great classical musicians such as Ferenc Liszt, Béla Bartók, and Zoltán Kodály. A large number of Japanese people are fond of their music and many students are enthusiastic to learn music originating from Hungary. More than 20 students attend the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music currently. I usually visit concerts by the students as well as concerts by other great musicians. As the Embassy of Japan, we organise “Sound of Spring” concert by the Japanese students in collaboration with Hungary-Japan Friendship Society and the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music every year. Furthermore, Hungary has high-level dancers, amongst whom there are around 10 Japanese dancers in the Hungarian National Ballet. Their performances always amaze me. I am committed to supporting both young artists and professional artists.

Hungary has a wide range of arts and culture such as porcelain of Herend and Zsolnay, and also has different types of museums: Hungarian National Gallery, Hopp Ferenc Museum of East Asian Art, Műcsarnok, Ludwig Museum, etc. They have aspects deeply related with Japanese history and culture. I am willing to keep visiting art galleries to deepen my understanding about Hugarian arts.

On the other hand, new venues, which have strong ties with Japan, have been built or are being planned to construct. In January 2022, Magyar Zene Háza (House of Music Hungary) was newly opened in the Budapest city part. Mr. Sou Fujimoto, Japanese architect, designed this modern and iconic museum. His design was selected among 168 designs in the competition of Magyar Zene Háza. In September 2022, the First Far Eastern Classical Music Festival took place at this venue and many artists including Japanese and Hungarian attracted the audience for four consecutive days. Moreover, another emblematic institution, the New National Gallery, being designed by a Japanese architectural firm SANAA (Sejima and Nishizawa and Associates) will be constructed in the city park as well. I am delighted to learn about such talented Japanese architects being involved in the re-development of the City Park, which is of great importance to the vibrance of Budapest.

Needless to say, visiting “Japan Day” festival and Japanese culture related events at various cities in Hungary, such as Szombathely. They introduce various areas of the Japanese culture including Ikebana, Japanese tea ceremony, Gastronomy, Japanese sake, Budo (Japanese martial arts) and pop culture always attract my interest. I will continue to support their activities.

Most of my activities are introduced on our embassy’s Facebook. Also, Japanese culture and arts such as Japanese restaurant, Bento (Japanese lunch box), Budo and Ikebana are being introduced on the Facebook pages. I hope you can visit the Facebook pages and find interesting contents about Japan, my Facebook page link is here.

DNH: What are the first things you would mention about our country if you invited a friend to Hungary?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: I would love to tell my Japanese friends about Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube” – starting with the Buda Castle towering over the Danube, which boasts a magnificent view. I would also mention the rich cultural soil that has produced great musicians such as Liszt, Bartók and Kodály, as mentioned earlier, many magnificent historical buildings, such as the Parliament and the Opera House. I would also draw people’s attention to Hungary’s deep history, starting from the time of the “Honfoglalás” (Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin) and the coronation of King István I.

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge, which is fantastically beautiful when lit up at night, should not be forgotten to mention. Unfortunately, the bridge is currently under regular traffic restrictions due to repair work and only open to buses and taxis, but we are very much looking forward to the completion of the work in autumn 2023.

Moreover, it must definitely be mentioned that there is a rich food culture, such as Hungarian wines and Mangalica pork, which has recently become well-known in Japan. Hungary is also a safe and very secure place. I am proud to work for the development of bilateral relations in such a wonderful country.

DNH:  And what would you recommend to a Hungarian tourist who is planning his first trip to Japan?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: There are countless wonderful places to visit in Japan, and it is hard to choose between them all. Firstly, however, I would recommend Kyoto, which was the capital of Japan from 794 to 1869 and had been the country’s political, economic and cultural centre. Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture, has a unique culture that differs from that of the mainland, while Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, is known as a ‘treasure house of ingredients’, offering fresh seafood and nationally renowned ramen.

When it comes to food, the local sake from all over Japan and so-called “B-grade gourmet(good cheap eats)” such as ramen, takoyaki (octopus dumplings), beef bowls and Japanese-style curry are also very tasty and reasonably priced. Furthermore, Japan is one of the world’s major hot spring countries, which Hungarians, who also love hot springs, are sure to like. In any case, Japan never bores travellers, whether they are in the East, West, South or North.

In recent years, the interest in Japanese traditional culture, such as ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arrangement), Tea ceremony, Kimono, Martial arts, Japanese cuisine, Sake and Anime, has been very high in Hungary, and we also hear that the enthusiasm for learning Japanese language is also very strong. It would be a great pleasure if this growing interest in Japan would one day lead to greater desire to visit Japan, and if more and more Hungarians would actually visit Japan. The recent depreciation of the yen is an opportunity that foreign visitors must not miss.

DNH: Can you please mention some upcoming cultural, economic and folklore programmes the Embassy organises?

HE Ambassador Masato OTAKA: We are planning to organise various programs. Firstly, we will have a booth on the Educational Expo in January in order to present Japanese government scholarship programs. Many students in Hungary and neighbouring countries always come to the Expo to plan their future career. We are grateful that students visit our booth and get interested in Japan. Subsequently, as I mentioned earlier, the “Sound of Spring” concert at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music will take place in March, and our embassy’s booth on Children’s Day at Budapest City Park will be presented in May. Our booth is one of the most popular booths. We usually have demonstration of martial arts such as Aikido, Kendo and Karate. Calligraphy, traditional toy and face painting of Kabuki or Anime characters are also popular. A Japanese company will introduce their product to visitors as well.

As I mentioned earlier, there are “Japan’s Day” events in several places such as Budapest, Szombathely and Gyula. Hungarian people who are keen to promote Japanese culture organise the events. They sometimes invite Japanese experts or artists from Japan or other countries and many visitors can experience the various authentic Japanese culture. I hope you can visit those interesting events.

Moreover, various Japanese cultural programmes will be held during Veszprém-Balaton European Capital of Culture 2023. As a part of “Balaton Wine Gourmet Festival” a Japanese cuisine event took place as a pre-program in September 2023. We will continue to participate in some programs and hope that as many people as possible will get to know Japanese culture and Japanese artist’s activities in Hungary.

If you want to indulge in a good book, here in Budapest, I would like to recommend to visit a Japanese cultural center “The Japan Foundation Budapest”. They have a great library where you can borrow many Japanese books. They also organise many cultural events. Therefore, I hope you will visit their website HERE and check their programmes as well.

hungary_japan_video
Read alsoJapanese guys tried Hungarian foods, snacks, beers – check their reactions – VIDEO

Ambassador of Norway to Hungary on cooperations, Hungarian gastronomy in Oslo, Norwegian students and community and more – Interview

Norway's Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary Budapest

Her Excellency Trine Skymoen, Norway’s ambassador to Budapest, honoured us with an interview. She talked about his first impressions of Hungary and the Hungarian people, Norway is the largest single provider of gas to Europe, Norway Grants and many more.

Daily News Hungary (DNH): The Norwegian Embassy and Residence are beautifully located next to Buda Castle. What were the most important steps in your career?

HE Ambassador Trine Skymoen: We are very lucky to have the Embassy and Residence located here. I have a beautiful view of the Parliament from my residence, which I enjoy every day.

I joined the foreign service in 1986 and my first posting was to Ivory Coast in 1988. Budapest is now my seventh posting.

Originally, I joined the foreign service because I wanted to travel, and I wanted to travel to exotic places, as far away from Norway as possible. Now, being in my fourth country in central Europe, I guess it just shows that your priorities change. Life takes unexpected turns, and I really enjoy being here.

DNH: How did your life eventually lead you to Budapest? Have you visited our country before your mission? What was your initial impression of Hungary before you came here?

Ambassador Skymoen: I was posted altogether 10 years in three of Hungary’s neighboring countries. I was posted in Vienna, Bratislava and in Belgrade, and I visited Budapest regularly.  So, I wanted to be posted here because it sparked my interest when I visited, especially the beauty of the country and the hospitality of its people. So, I was very lucky to be appointed ambassador in Budapest.

DNH: And how do you view Hungary and its people now?

Ambassador Skymoen: I think what I have experienced being posted here really confirms my initial impressions. It is a beautiful country with a marvelous capital and really hospitable and nice people, who are very proud of the rich culture and traditions that exists in Hungary. It has a fascinating history, and it is really a privilege to live here.

I came here on the 1st of September 2020 during Covid-19 restrictions, so now I am really making up for the lost time, travelling as much as I can and as often as I can.

Norway's Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary Budapest
Norway’s Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary. Source: Norway Embassy

DNH: Norway has become one of Europe’s main sources of natural gas, but you have used this precious natural asset for a long time. I recall learning in primary school about Norway, the country that set an example for the whole world by investing the money that came from energy resources in education, science and other disciplines that would shape the country’s future.

Ambassador Skymoen: The day before Christmas Eve 1969 it was announced that we have found oil. A lot of oil! Ekofisk is the largest oil field ever found at sea and started the Norwegian oil adventure.

Norway is still a rather small player in the global crude market with production covering about 2 percent of the global demand. Norwegian production of natural gas covers approximately 3 percent of global demand, however, as an exporter Norway is a significant player.

Norway is the third largest exporter of natural gas in the world, after Russia and Qatar.

In recent years, Norway has supplied between 20 and 25 percent of the EU’s and United Kingdom’s gas demand. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Norway is the largest single provider of gas to Europe.

Nearly all oil and gas produced on the Norwegian shelf are exported.

Norway’s Parliament passed a very important law in 1990; to establish the Government Petroleum Fund, which is now known as The Government Pension Fund Global. The plan was to regularly transfer capital from the government’s petroleum revenue to the fund. The fund’s purpose is to support the government’s long-term management of petroleum revenue, and the fund has a small stake in more than 9,000 companies worldwide. It holds 1.3 percent of all of the world’s listed companies, and the value of the fund is now around 1,180 billion US. It is the largest of any sovereign wealth fund in the world. The fund has one main purpose; to help finance the Norwegian welfare state for future generations.

Norway's Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary Budapest
Norway’s Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary. Source: Norway Embassy

DNH: What were Norway’s most important decisions regarding the Government Petroleum Fund?

Ambassador Skymoen: To achieve a broad political consensus on how the fund should be managed. The less we spend today, the better the position we will be in to deal with downturns and crises in the future, the authorities can spend more in hard times and less in good times.

So that the fund benefits as many people as possible in the future too, politicians have agreed on a rule which ensures that we do not spend more than the expected return on the fund. On average, the government is to spend only the equivalent of the real return on the fund, which is estimated to be around 3 percent per year. In this way, oil revenue is phased only gradually into the economy. At the same time, only the return on the fund is spent, and not the fund’s capital. We save for future generations.

DNH: Norway Grants is a remarkable opportunity for Hungarian organizations. Can you describe its operation briefly?

Ambassador Skymoen: The EEA and Norway Grants grew into a well-established and successful cooperation platform between the three EFTA donor countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, and the partner countries in the European Union. The agreement includes a common goal to work together to reduce economic and social disparities in Europe. In the current project period, Norway will provide approximately 2.8 billion euros in support to 15 member states.

We support projects in areas such as environment and climate change, health and childcare, conservation of European cultural heritage, research and education, Schengen measures and judiciary, social dialogue, and the strengthening of rule of law, democracy and civil society in 15 countries.

Since becoming a member of the EU in 2004, Hungary has received 288,4 million euros in funding under the EEA and Norway Grants.

Unfortunately, the programmes for the period 2014-2021 are not implemented in Hungary due to the lack of agreement on the appointment of a Fund Operator to manage the fund for civil society within the agreed deadline.

The talks between EEA countries and the EU for the next period 2022-2027 have just started.

DNH: There are slightly more than half as many people living in your country as in Hungary. Both the climate and the opportunities differ widely between the two countries. Is Hungary a popular destination among Norwegian tourists?

Ambassador Skymoen: Hungary, and especially Budapest is a very popular destination for Norwegians. The airline company Norwegian has daily direct flights between Oslo and Budapest. The beauty of Budapest and the rest of the country, and the quality and prices, especially on food, drinks and cultural programmes make it an attractive destination for long weekends.

A large number of Norwegian students not only in the capital but also in big cities such as Szeged, Pécs and Debrecen, are good ambassadors for Hungary in Norway.

DNH: Name three attractions Norwegian visitors would appreciate the most when exploring Hungary

Ambassador Skymoen: The stunning view of Budapest with the Danube, the bridges, and the architecture. Your excellent wine tradition is very popular among Norwegian tourists. The spa with the hot thermal water is a must to explore, not only the modern facilities but most importantly the traditional ones.

 

DNH: What is the current number of Norwegian expats living in Hungary?

Ambassador Skymoen: Around a thousand maybe, including the students. One of the largest Norwegian communities outside Budapest is the personnel at the airbase in Pápa and their families. They do important work for our common security together with colleagues from 12 countries.

DNH: And vice versa, how are we doing up there in the north? Are there many Hungarians living in Norway? Is it easy to settle down and get a job over there?

Ambassador Skymoen: After Hungary became a member of the EU and Schengen it is much easier to start studying and working in Norway. That has attracted new groups of Hungarians in addition to those 1,500 refugees who we welcomed after the 1956 revolution, and who became fully integrated and appreciated members of Norwegian society. You can come across Hungarians wherever you go in Norway even in the most remote places up north.

DNH: What is the relationship between the two countries like from a business point of view? What Norwegian investments and companies are present in Hungary?

Ambassador Skymoen: There is always scope for improvement and expansion.

The Hungarian-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce with members from both countries is a well-established organization promoting trade and investment.

Aluminum is an important export product in Norway. The biggest Norwegian company in Hungary is Hydro Extrusions, the largest extrusion plant in Europe, with over 1.600 employees in Hungary. 80 percent of their products are made for the Hungarian car industry, aluminum is a very big part of new cars now. Around 700 kg of a modern car is made of aluminum, and it is very easy to reuse. Just recently Hydro decided to start a recycling factory creating 80 new workplaces in Székesfehérvár.

Other well-known Norwegian brands are Yara and DNV, Det Norske Veritas which have been present for a long time in Hungary.

Norway's Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary Budapest
Norway’s Ambassador Trine Skymoen to Hungary. Source: Norway Embassy

DNH: And what Hungarian products can be found in Norway?

Ambassador Skymoen: Food. In Oslo, you can find Hungarian restaurants, like Bistro Budapest, with goulash and Hungarian sausages, and lángos on the menu. And of course, Hungarian wines, which are sold in restaurants and in wine shops.

DNH: What cultural or business events has the Embassy organized recently? Would you mention some upcoming programmes we should keep an eye on?

Ambassador Skymoen: Norwegian authors, film productions and musicians are very popular in Hungary. We had several cultural events this autumn starting with a Nordic Film Festival. Seven Norwegian authors participated in the different book festivals and other programmes, for some of them, Erlend Loe, Maja Lunde and Helene Uri this was not the first meeting with Hungarian readers.

And in the coming year, we are really looking forward to the concert with Norway’s biggest rap duo, Karpe and Quickstyle. Norwegian Metal bands are also very popular here.

DNH: Last but not least, how do you feel about Hungarian gastronomy?

Ambassador Skymoen: What can I say, Hungarian food and wine are just delicious. Hungarian gastronomy is very rich and mostly based on meat. Actually, we call Budapest “a 10-kilo posting”. If you would like to add more fish to Hungarian cuisine, I can really recommend Norwegian salmon.

Get more information about Norwegian Embassy in Budapest on their official website,  Facebook, and Twitter.

Read more interviews here: 

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Miguel Xavier Monar, the Ambassador of Ecuadorian cuisine seeks to connect in Hungary

Ecuadorian chef Miguel Xavier Monar

The name of Ecuador resounds ever more in the world. It is no longer only the country in which you can clearly see the imaginary line that divides the Planet into two hemispheres, but it also makes a good name for the excellent quality of the products it exports, and more recently for the people who represent this nation, as is the case of chef Miguel Xavier Monar, who recently visited Budapest, for the second time this year, with the aim of promoting the products and cuisine of his homeland.

Established in Madrid for almost two decades, Monar has become for 9 years the first Ecuadorian chef Ambassador of the export products of his country under the auspices of PROECUADOR and is also one of the main standards of Ecuadorian cuisine in the world.

Miguel Monar is undoubtedly an excellent chef and even better human being; that shows in the passionate way in which he works, because, although intimidates anyone in the kitchen by his height, the truth is that his kindness and his willingness to share his knowledge, make it a living version of an open book of gastronomy, which any foodie, or even any member of a kitchen, would like to have close by.

His curiosity keeps him actively studying, researching and testing new techniques, in order to delight his diners and revolutionize the kitchens for which he works. He has become obsessed with merging and creating new things, without losing his foundations.

Ecuadorian chef Miguel Xavier Monar Hungary
Ecuadorian chef Miguel Xavier Monar in Hungary. Photo: PROECUADOR

The road that Monar has travelled during the last 20 years has been long and full of more achievements than stumbling, it was this that made it possible for the eyes of the state to turn to see it, after becoming an international reference to “Paralelo 0”, the first Ecuadorian haute cuisine restaurant outside Ecuador. “Paralelo 0 was an avant-garde restaurant in which quality was bet, mixing products and recipes of Ecuador from Madrid. It is there when the door of Ecuador opens for me, because they saw what we could do with our kitchen, which is a traditional cuisine and that taking it to a point of vanguard was a challenge”, comments Monar about the first rapprochement he had with PROECUADOR, a government institution in charge of the Promotion of Exports and Investments of Ecuador.

In the beginning, the office offers to him to be Ambassador of the products of Ecuador and to attend international festivals, in order to demonstrate the advantages and qualities of these products.

“When I am proposed to be Ambassador of the products of my country, is that I understand that I must learn to cook my food, because the Ecuadorian food base that I had was of flavour, of having eaten and tasted, but not of having cooked because I trained in Spain, so I didn’t know the bases. I started this process with a lot of respect and enthusiasm, it was a great challenge, so I spent a long time learning about our cuisine by travelling, meeting people and exploring the origin of our flavours. I was born with those smells and those flavours, but I didn’t know how to prepare them. I mean, I could know a recipe and reproduce it, but I had to learn Ecuadorian cuisine from within to get to where I am today”,

reveals Monar, who for a whole year travelled from point to point his country to soak up the techniques used by his ancestors and know in depth a very traditional cuisine.

Ecuador food gastronomy
Read alsoEcuador dazzles with its exotic flavors in Hungary – PHOTOS

“Participating in these festivals and events has been incredible because I have to adapt my recipes and our original products to the palates of different regions. For example, going to Israel was a super hard experience because they can’t eat pork or shrimp, and those are base dishes for Ecuadorians, but also ceviche is my star dish, so there I learned that I had to be very open-minded and so creative to get the attention of diners”, highlights the chef who has visited more than a dozen European countries, the United States, the Middle East and Asia, where he had the opportunity to conduct a one-month tour around China in Luxury hotels, experience that allowed him to open a restaurant of Ecuadorian avant-garde cuisine, with local funding, in the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai.

During these tours, he has already arrived twice in Budapest, invited by the Embassy of Ecuador in Hungary, and claims to feel lucky to cook here.

“It is an incredible experience to come to Hungary always, which is a country that welcomes me kindly. The truth is that I feel grateful because it is very easy to offer Ecuadorian food here, and people are open to eat what you cook for them, and they like it. Maybe there is some resistance first to seafood, but once they dare to try, they are delighted, and I think it has to do with the preparation, because in our dishes patience is vital. At the first dinner we offered our type of pulled pork that was a success, and it took us more than 36 hours the entire preparation process, but it was worth it because people connected with the flavours”,

says Chef Monar.

The chef born in Quito has taken advantage of his visits to the Hungarian capital to infiltrate some kitchens, learn and analyse how to cook on this side of the world, and ends up concluding with are many things that connect the cuisine of both countries. “I’ve looked at this a lot. I think they really like that powerful stew, sauces, and long cooking times. You make here a “Seco de chivo”, which is a lamb stew, and I’m sure it wins, because it’s a kitchen that connects us. I would bet on the people of Budapest,” he says.

After working for little more than two years with La Fontana Gastro in Madrid and position it as the number 1 restaurant of Ecuadorian vanguardist food in Spain and one of the tops Latin American foods in Europe, Miguel Xavier Monar launches a new personal project “Salvajes Burger”, betting on the concept Dark Kitchen.

jose-luis-salazar-ecuador-ambassador-to-hungary
Read alsoAmbassador Salazar: Ecuador is not as far from Hungary as you might think – interview

When I met Neil Strauss

Neil Strauss

The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) was a success again this year, bringing publishers, authors and readers together once again for almost two weeks. In fact, celebrities you’re unlikely to run into at any other time were invited to the event. Neil Strauss attended a lecture and I had the chance to interview him briefly afterwards.

Neil Strauss is a double favorite of mine, not only because he is a very good writer who, with The Game, for example, has brought to the table an extraordinary work on the art of conquest, but also because he is, in a sense, a colleague. A ten-time New York Times bestselling author, the Rolling Stone magazine figurehead has interviewed a number of celebrities, and I had the opportunity to listen to a lecture and ask him a few questions in person.

The impact of celebrity books on our world

Books written by and about celebrities are among the most popular genres among readers worldwide, topping the bestseller lists. But why do celebrities impress readers? Neil Strauss and Egyptian screenwriter Ahmed Mourad, who writes both fiction and non-fiction in Arabic, sought to answer this question.

The performance was also interesting in the sense that it brought together two different and rich cultures on stage. There was Strauss from the US and Mourad, an Arab writer well-known to locals. There were some things they agreed on, but also, for example, differing opinions on the audience’s overwhelming obsession with celebrity accounts and memoirs.

“We usually have one image of celebrities in our minds, and their real story turns out to be completely different. This helps us feel better about our own lives and problems. What fascinates me about interviewing celebrities is that we think money and fame will solve all our problems. But they only make our problems bigger. I remember it was Bruce Springsteen who said, ‘The human psyche is not designed to go from playing music in a garage to playing on a stage in front of 75,000 people,'” Strauss said.

In contrast, Ahmed Mourad believes that the adoration of famous people’s lives is “part of human nature”:

“It’s the nature of humanity: in our minds, famous people are close to fictional characters. Our own lives may not give us the opportunity to experience these worlds they live in,” said the Egyptian writer.

Celebrities’ stories reach even more people in the age of social media, with many posting every detail of their lives online. Strauss sees books, as opposed to short entries, as the real value, because, he said, a book gives you the opportunity to tell a story well. “Their struggles, their difficulties, and their journey can only be captured in a proper narrative. It has also become much harder for celebrities to get their stories out there these days, as every little detail can be analysed and torn apart,” he said.

Mourad took an interesting approach to celebrity books. According to him, recording the lives of celebrities can be as important as any other record in terms of preserving human memories and values. “If celebrities don’t tell their stories, we risk losing important parts of their lives forever. We must learn to accept their stories without criticism or analysis.”

Both writers accepted that celebrity stories are as important to storytelling as any other format.

On the subject, Strauss made a very thought-provoking statement.

“We’ve all been through a lot. We want to move on, we want to move beyond our lives. It’s just that celebrities get paid to write it!”

Interview with Neil Strauss

It was getting very late when the fans finally let Neil Strauss go after the show, so I only had the chance for a short interview, but here I learned that Bruce Springsteen was his most sympathetic and relaxed interviewee. As Neil put it, he has been one of the most famous musicians in the world for decades, yet he drives without bodyguards, drives his own car, walks the streets of New York and even sits in a bar without any problems and is very easy to talk to. Unlike many celebrities, you can’t even sit in a restaurant with them without bodyguards, and the conspicuousness attracts crazy fans.

Strauss has met many stars in his life, but to him, the most memorable location and interviewee was Italy’s Calabria region and the person he spoke to there: he conducted a lengthy interview with a mafia leader. As he said, it was a special experience to be there, even in the home of the family leader.

It was also an outstanding experience to interview Chuck Berry, Strauss said. According to him, one of rock and roll’s most important personalities never gave a longer interview because he hated journalists, but somehow they found common ground and talked for three hours, and he invited Strauss to his house the next day.

I was very interested in the journalistic trick of how he was able to get some of the world’s most famous celebrities in for interviews early in his career. Strauss said: whatever it takes!

“Sometimes it’s Rolling Stone magazine or the New York Times, other times you have to find someone they trust, and that’s how you find and interview the celebrity. There was one of the latest big hits, Elon Musk. There was someone who knew both of them and that’s how the meeting came about. So the first challenge is to set up the meeting, and the second challenge is to get as much access to the person as possible, and to get a glimpse into their real life that no one else has had the opportunity to see.”

Regarding his famous book, The Game, he said that he was approached by a group of “date artists” and they wanted him to write a book about them. He turned them down at first, then, because he wasn’t that successful with women, he joined the group privately, and once he was in and really fascinated by the whole story, he decided that yes, it was worth a book. The rest is history and he has certainly helped millions of men to be successful in dating.

I find Strauss to be an extremely interesting and often philosophical man, it’s worth following his Instagram account for example, he shares a lot of his thoughts there too. I asked him what he felt was missing in his life. What’s the big thing that he still wants to do? And his answer is simple, yet noble:

I’d like to see my son grow up, and then I’d like to write books or podcasts or whatever. The first part of life is more like survival, the second part is there to develop deep relationships with people, and most importantly, be good to yourself!

As for Hungary, he said he’s been here before, but not very recently, so he definitely wants to get to Budapest soon. Orlando Bloom invited him to the Hungarian capital when the American actor was filming here, but Strauss couldn’t take the opportunity. However, he insisted that he loved Budapest and that if he comes again, we should meet and continue our conversation.

I am ready and waiting to meet him.

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Qatar Ambassador to Budapest: Hungary is very rich in human wealth

Qatar Abdulla Falah Abdulla Al Dosari

His Excellency Abdulla Falah Al-Dosari, Qatar’s ambassador to Budapest, honoured us with an interview. He talked about his first impressions about Hungary and the Hungarian people, how Qatar prepares to organise the greatest sport event of the world, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and why guests should visit the Arab Cultural Day organised next week in Budapest.

Daily News Hungary (DNH): Can you tell us a bit about your career? You have a very long history as a diplomat.

Al Dosari: At the outset, I would like to thank your esteemed Daily News Hungary website and you personally for giving me the opportunity to answer your questions and present my country’s viewpoint on various issues.

After I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in political science in 1980, I began working in my country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and since then I have represented my country at the United Nations in New York, Geneva and Vienna, and worked as an ambassador in Islamabad, Brussels and Rabat, as well as working in various departments of the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

DNH: What did you hear about Hungary before you embarked on your Budapest mission? What did you imagine Hungarians would be like?

Al Dosari: It has been about 10 months since I came to Hungary. I feel that during this short period of time I have come to know a country and society that is active, developed and full of love for life. I made new friends and acquaintances from different segments of the Hungarian people. I became more and more familiar with the history of Hungary and the region of Eastern Europe, about which we did not know much before. We can say that it is an ancient history spanning more than a thousand years, during which Hungary witnessed very great events, but it maintained its entity, and this in itself is a great thing.

DNH: And what is your current perception of us and our country?

Al Dosari: Hungary is a very beautiful country and it seems clear that the Hungarian people take care of their country, and they want it to rise to the level of the developed countries in the world. We can say that Hungary is very rich, not in mineral resources, but in human wealth, which has given a lot to civilisation in science, medicine, engineering, sports, music and other arts.

DNH: Qatar is preparing to host what is probably the biggest sporting event in the world. Unfortunately, Hungary did not qualify for the World Cup. How can you describe its atmosphere to Hungarian fans? What are the stadiums and their surroundings like?

Al Dosari: The State of Qatar gives great importance to sport, beside arts and culture. Qatar has been the first Arab state to host the prestigious FIFA 2022 World Cup, as the smallest country to ever organise this event. It promises to have a wide impact as new opportunities emerge for Qatar, other GCC states and the region. As a result of the investment and development drive the country aims to become a center for great sports events. With more than 2 million visitors expected, this mega event will accelerate growth in diverse sectors such as tourism, hospitality and infrastructure, and will contribute to the goals of Qatar’s National Vision 2030.

DNH: Almost every continent has an opponent in your group. What do you expect from the host team?

Al Dosari: As a citizen of Qatar, it is natural that I want my team to win all its matches, but we know that the other participating teams are trying to win the championship, and therefore I can only say that the football yard is flat, the ball is round and the foot is the one that shoots the ball to achieve the goal. We are waiting for a fun game from all participating teams.

DNH: Let’s discuss the import/export trade between Hungary and Qatar. What types of Hungarian products would likely be in demand in your country? And what Qatari products can Hungarian customers find on the shelves of local stores?

Al Dosari: We suggest that companies, businessmen and chambers of commerce and industry from both countries meet and draw up a list of the most important goods and commodities that each side needs from the other.

DNH: The Qatari Embassy is also co-organising the upcoming Arab Cultural Day. What can you share with us about the event?

Al Dosari: The Arab Cultural Day, which will be organised on October 15, 2022 at the Ethnographic Museum in Budapest under the patronage of Mr. László Kövér, Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament, is an event where the Arab embassies in Hungary are trying to exhibit their countries’ most prominent cultural achievements, heritage and traditions.

Of course, time and place do not allow us to show all the cultural achievements of the Arab nation, but the visitors can see the richness and cultural diversity that extends over a large area in the Arab world.

In the Qatari stand, we will display some gifts and souvenirs designed specifically for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, including a miniature of the World Cup that will be given to the winning team.

 

DNH: How can you introduce Hungary to Qatari or other Muslim tourists travelling to our country? What are the main attractions they should definitely visit? And what are the must-try Hungarian dishes?

Al Dosari: We consider that it is very important for the Hungarian embassies accredited to the Arab countries to promote Hungary to travel companies, tourism agencies, hospitality services and hotels. As well as distributing tourist brochures highlighting the beautiful landmarks of Hungary.