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PHOTOS: President Zelensky visits Ukrainian school in Budapest, says ceasefire not a solution

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is in Budapest for the European Political Community summit, on Thursday paid a visit to the Hungarian-Ukrainian bilingual primary and secondary school in Csepel, in southern Budapest, accompanied by foreign ministry state secretary Levente Magyar.

Orbán and Zelensky agreed to set up Ukrainian schools in Hungary

Magyar told MTI after the visit that students had given a warm welcome to the Ukrainian president.

The school launched classes in September after Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Zelensky agreed during the summer on Hungary providing education to Ukrainian children in their mother tongue.

Zelensky did not like PM Orbán's idea about the ceasefire peace summit
Zelensky-Orbán summit in Kyiv this summer. Source: FB/Orbán

Magyar said Ukrainian children staying in Hungary in the several thousands wanted to maintain relations with their culture and mother tongue, and the Budapest school offered just such an opportunity.

He added that Hungary was ready to open additional schools according to demand.

President Zelensky: Ceasefire not a solution

A ceasefire currently would not offer a solution in the Russian-Ukraine war as it would not guarantee the restoration of Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence, President Volodymyr Zelensky said after the European Political Community summit in Budapest on Thursday.

Zelensky told a press conference that nobody knew what would follow a ceasefire, which would not automatically spell the end of the war.

“I respect the opinion of those European leaders who urge the quickest possible ceasefire, but current conditions do not allow for it.

We will have to assess with US president-elect Trump how he imagines ending the war quickly….” Zelensky added. In response to a question, Zelensky said the 300 billion dollars-worth of Russian assets frozen under the arrangements of the sanctions against Russia could be used to arm Ukraine and rebuild its industry. “Russian aggression so far has caused 800 billion dollars-worth of destruction,” he added.

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VIDEO: How rude! Romanian President showed his back to PM Orbán for 20 seconds

Romanian President showed his back to PM Orbán for 20 seconds (Copy)

PM Viktor Orbán was ready to greet him, but Romanian President Klaus Iohannis decided to wait for 20 seconds, showing his back to the Hungarian prime minister. PM Orbán did not understand the rudeness but waited for the President patiently with a confused grin.

The outgoing Romanian President Klaus Iohannis acted quite strangely when he arrived in Budapest for the EPC summit on Thursday morning. PM Viktor Orbán would have greeted him just like all other country leaders, but Iohannis did something unexpected.

After getting out of his car, he did not establish eye contact with PM Orbán and did not walk to him. Instead, he showed his back to the Hungarian prime minister for 20 seconds, standing behind his car and seemingly rearranging his clothes.

Romanian President showed his back to PM Orbán for 20 seconds (Copy)
PM Orbán grinned but remained patient. PrtScr/X Video/ SzabadonMagyarul/X

News emerged that the Hungarian police made Iohannis wait and circulate the Puskás Aréna, the venue of the summit, for 15 minutes, so the Romanian President became angry. The Romanian Antena3 news channel wrote that the driver missed the correct stadium entrance. That is why he had to do another round for 15 minutes. Iohannis is well-known for his impatient nature. In 2015, when he first arrived in Paris, he simply threw his coat on the car when nobody took it from him immediately. Even the Romanian media was startled by his deed and called it a controversial, even unfriendly gesture.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis and PM Orbán in Budapest
Shaking hands a bit later. They still do not seem too happy. Photo: MTI

Later, the Hungarian police said such allegations were only fake news. According to hvg.hu, the police followed the protocol, and nobody missed the stadium entrance.

Here’s the video:

Iohannis congratulated Trump on X

Congratulating Trump, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis wrote on X: “Romania is a strong and committed Strategic Ally of the US. Through our joint efforts, we will bring peace and prosperity for both our countries and beyond, defending our common interests”, Anadolu news agency wrote.

Romania reiterates support for Moldova amid election, referendum

European leaders reiterated their support Thursday for Moldova as that country concluded a presidential election and referendum that saw accusations of external influence, particularly by President Maia Sandu.

A statement by the Moldovan presidency said Sandu held talks with several of her EU counterparts on the sidelines of the fifth European Political Community summit in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.

“We, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom, together with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission, reiterate our firm support for the Republic of Moldova following the meeting with President Maia Sandu,” it said.

It said they congratulate Moldovans for their “commitment to democracy, freedom and the rule of law,” which they said was seen in the presidential election that ended with Sandu securing a second term following a runoff earlier this month.

The statement indicated that European leaders welcomed the result of the referendum, which was held simultaneously Oct. 20, which enshrined Moldova’s EU accession aspirations in the country’s Constitution.

Moscow challenges the outcome

“We stand in solidarity with the Republic of Moldova in its quest for peace, prosperity and stability and reaffirm its rightful place in a free and democratic Europe,” it said, indicating that it happened despite “unprecedented attacks and foreign interference.”

“We strongly condemn documented attempts to influence election results through information manipulation, corruption and vote-buying schemes,” it said, adding that they reaffirm their determination to support Moldova in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Sandu won more than 55% of the vote in a presidential runoff Nov. 3, securing a second term as incumbent president. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov challenged Sandu to provide evidence of the alleged interference.

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Speaker Kövér: Hungary, China have similar views of the “present and future of the world” – UPDATED

Speaker of Parliament László Kövér met Wang Huning, the chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Beijing on Wednesday, the parliament’s press chief said.

Kövér and Wang discussed bilateral ties as well as international affairs, Zoltán Szilágyi said.

Kövér said the two countries had similar views of the “present and future of the world, and our relations are characterised by mutual respect and by not interfering with each other’s affairs.”

Hungary is striving to build a pragmatic relationship with the People’s Republic of China, and “does not wish to mix ideology with economic cooperation.” It is working to strengthen connectivity in the world, and “we picture our country as a meeting point of eastern and western capital in the future”, he said. “We do not support policies raising the spectre of an economic war and restricting cooperation between the EU and China.”

Speaker László Kövér in the Hungarian Parliament
Photo: MTI

Hungary will remain a home for Chinese investments

“We aim to continue to offer a home for Chinese investments in Hungary, to further strengthen trade, and to increase Hungarian exports into China,” Kövér said.

Challenges such as climate change, the effect of pollution and mass illegal migration, which are hitting both countries “in a volatile and dangerous international situation”, can only be solved through joint effort, he said.

Wang said ties between the two countries had never been stronger, “and China greatly appreciates Hungary’s efforts to solve international conflicts too.” He praised the “multilayered cultural ties” between Hungary and China, adding that Hungary was home to 5 Confucius Institutes and a bilingual Hungarian-Chinese elementary and secondary school.

Hungary’s parliamentary delegation attended a gala marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the countries at the Chinese National Opera House, organised by Hungary’s embassy to Beijing.

Kövér: dynamic development in Hungarian-Chinese ties

Speaker of Parliament László Kövér left Beijing and paid a visit to Chongqing, parliament’s press office reported on Friday.

During his stay, Kövér met leaders of the 30-million city and visited the Hungarian-Chinese Technology Transfer Center, one of Hungary and China’s key Belt and Road projects. At the center, Kover was briefed on the Hungarian-Chinese Food Science Research Centre, co-founded by Hungary’s University of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Southwest University.
The Hungarian delegation was also presented the plans for a research laboratory implemented in cooperation between Sanxia Hospital of Chongqing University and Nobel Prize winning physicist Ferenc Krausz, aimed at facilitiating application of the latest physical research in medicine. Kövér said cooperation with Chongqing was “a tangible example of the dynamic development in Hungarian-Chinese ties in the past ten years”, adding that the two countries were partners “despite distance, cultural differences, different political structures and different magnitudes”. He also added that Hungary could provide China with the advantages of innovation, technology, and shared experience. Later in the day, Kövér laid a wreath at a memorial to 19th century Hungarian poet Sandor Petofi and his wife in Chongqing’s Elin Park.

UPDATE: Hungarian-Chinese Investor Roundtable holds inaugural meeting

The Hungarian-Chinese Investor Roundtable (MKBKA) held its inaugural meeting at the end of October, the body told MTI on Thursday. The MKBKA is a body of independent experts established to support the achievement of goals in the Belt and Road Initiative intergovernmental strategic cooperation agreement through recommendations and consultation. The roundtable will also contribute to the preparation and implementation of bilateral projects.

The MKBKA aims to enhance Hungary and China’s broad strategic partnership and advance cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, agriculture, investments, transportation, education, science, technology, healthcare, sport, culture and tourism. Members of the MKBKA include the Budapest Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BKIK), the Hungarian Association of Industrial Parks, the China Trade Information Center and the Eurasia Centre of Neumann Janos University.

The members elected Tamás Janzsó, the head of the Hungarian Association of Industrial Parks, to lead the roundtable. Members also decided to open an office in China, set up a portal for preparing projects and create databases of investment locations and suppliers. A Eurasia Club will be established for networking.

Brussels must rethink pro-war strategy in wake of Trump victory, says Fidesz

Brussels must rethink its pro-war strategy in the wake of the victory of Donald Trump at the US presidential election, András László, an MEP of ruling Fidesz said on Wednesday.

László said “Trump’s victory came as a shock” for Brussels, adding that the EU had “expected an extended period of support for Ukraine, with US help, but if Trump keeps his promise and tries to quickly end the war in Ukraine, it means that the pro-war strategy must be re-thought in Brussels.”

He added that “in that case practically everything will have to be handled from the EU budget and defence industry, which will create an entirely new situation”.

Meanwhile, László said that Trump had also urged NATO member states to spend 2 percent of their GDP on defence spending, in line with NATO directives, during his first term. Trump warned the member states not to rely on the alliance “just because its article 5 ensures protection from the US in the case of an attack,” László added.

Trump had expected the member states already at that time to shoulder their share in NATO activities, he said.

László added that Hungary had announced large military and defence investments years ago in order to carry out the modernisation of the army which is still under way.

Featured image: László Kövér in the Hungarian Parliament

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PM Orbán demands new European strategy from Bishkek, celebrating Trump’s victory in Kyrgyzstan – PHOTOS

A new European strategy will be needed in connection with Ukraine, the Hungarian prime minister said in his address at the summit of the Organisation of Turkic States held in Bishkek on Wednesday morning, after a Republican victory in the US presidential election.

The Republican victory will “put the question on the table for us European leaders” whether Europe was alone capable to continue providing military and financial support to Ukraine.

“I have serious doubts in that regard, this is why a new European strategy will be needed,” Orbán said, adding that the upcoming summit of European leaders in Budapest on Thursday could serve as a platform for taking the first steps.

PM Orbán demands new European strategy from Bishkek
PM Orbán’s arrival. Photo: FB/Orbán

The summit will bring together 47 heads of state and government in the biggest-ever diplomatic event in Hungary’s history, the prime minister said.

The most difficult question on the agenda will be the future of the 50 billion euro EU-US loan package earmarked for Ukraine under an earlier decision by the G7, he said.

PM Orbán demands new European strategy from Bishkek
Photo: FB/Orbán

Massive pro-war majority in the EU

Concerning the economy, Orbán said that Hungary’s trade turnover with Turkic countries had exceeded 5 billion dollars for the first time last year, adding that in 2023 over 5,000 students from those countries had applied for scholarships at Hungarian universities.

The prime minister said Hungary had started implementing its commitment of contributing 100 million dollars to the Turkic Investment Fund, and said “we hope that we will welcome investments by many Turkic companies and we will contribute to your economic growth in an increasingly large share.”

Referring to the latest summit of the organisation, Orbán noted the decision made on setting up a draught prevention institute at OTS’s European centre in Budapest to find solutions to environmental challenges. He said the new institute had already launched its first major programme aimed at establishing a Hungarian, Kyrgyz and Uzbek university cooperation in the area of the Fergana Valley’s forestation.

Concerning Europe and the debate about the war in Ukraine, Orbán said “there continues to be a massive pro-war majority in the European Union” despite military experts seeing a defeat of the European strategy on the battlefield. Hungary took over the EU presidency in July “and I launched a peace mission and I am grateful to Mr President Erdogan for supporting my efforts.” As a result of those efforts “discussion has started on ways to replace the war strategy with a peace strategy,” he added.

Orbán noted that the new European Commission was set to be formed on December 1, but said “I think we cannot expect meaningful change in Brussels’ approach towards the Turkic world … we need to prepare for a continued, distanced position.” He said, however, that he advocated a pro-active policy concerning the EU and “delegate all important issues to Brussels”. The Hungarian government will promote those issues at European political and economic forums and will “support all initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between the Turkic world and Europe,” he said.

Pointing to the EU’s declining competitiveness, Orbán said the Hungarian EU presidency had prepared a competitiveness pact, adding that European leaders would discuss and possibly adopt the draft in Budapest on Thursday. The economic measures proposed in the draft could give a massive boost to the European economy, he said, adding that “I hope we will succeed”.

Concluding his address, Orbán said members of the audience were welcome to attend OTS’s next informal meeting set for Budapest in the first half of next year.

Orbán meets Uzbek president

Orbán met Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the president of Uzbekistan, for talks ahead of a summit of the Organisation of Turkic States in Bishkek, his press chief told MTI on Wednesday.At their talks, the two leaders highlighted a “spectacular development” of bilateral relations in recent years, and noted the two countries’ signing a strategic partnership agreement in 2021, Bertalan Havasi said. Energy cooperation now covers a number of areas and Uzbekistan seeks to join the Green Energy Corridor project, a scheme crucial for Hungary’s energy security, Havasi added. The talks also touched upon cooperation in water management, transport, and education, as well as topical international issues.

Orbán receives Turkic States Organisation’s highest award

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has received this year’s Supreme Order of Turkic World at a summit of the Organisation of Turkic States in Bishkek, his press chief told MTI on Wednesday.

The honour was presented to Orbán by Sadyr Zhaparov, the president of Kyrgyzstan, Bertalan Havasi said. It is awarded to outstanding leaders for their significant contribution to strengthening unity and cooperation among Turkic states and for nurturing their common cultural heritage. The Hungarian prime minister was given the honour “in recognition of his outstanding efforts towards strengthening ties between Hungary and the Turkic states and enhancing cooperation within the Turkic world”. Accepting the honour, Orbán called it an important goal to maintain “a live connection” between Hungary and the Turkic world.
PM Orbán demands new European strategy from Bishkek
Photo: FB/Orbán

Informal Organisation of Turkic States summit to be held in Budapest

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó addressed a meeting of the council of foreign ministers of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) in Bishkek on Wednesday. Szijjártó said annual trade between Hungary and OTS member states had climbed over EUR 5bn, rising 20pc in a year and by 350pc over 15 years.

He noted that Hungary had started building ties with OTS members close to 15 years earlier and had gained observer status in the OTS six years ago.

Szijjártó said energy cooperation with OTS members had boosted Hungary’s energy security, pointing to gas deliveries from Turkiye and Azerbaijan, as well as the start of production at a Kazakh gas field by Hungarian oil and gas company MOL.

Hungary has started the transfer of USD 100m pledged for the Turkic Investment Fund, while the OTS Drought Prevention Institute in Budapest has launched its first project, he added. He said more than 5,000 students from OTS members had applied for the 1,040 scholarships Hungary offers each year to enroll at local universities.

Hungary will host an informal OTS summit in Budapest next year,

he added.

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PM Orbán visits Kyrgyzstan

Hungary highly values Kyrgyzstan for its endeavours to promote global security, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in a statement after meeting the Kyrgyz president on Tuesday.

Orbán praised Kyrgyzstan’s dependable action against terrorist organisations and its pro-peace position. The prime minister said Hungary generally thrived in times of peace and was glad that Kyrgyzstan was “also on the side of peace.”

He said that Hungary, as an EU member, was helping Kyrgyzstan in European political forums to ensure the broadest possible cooperation with the bloc. He noted that bilateral relations have been raised to the level of a strategic partnership. Accordingly, two-way trade is set to double this year, he added.

At their last meeting, the Kyrgyz president said bilateral cooperation should focus on hydropower and agriculture, Orbán said, noting that a Hungarian-Kyrgyz investment fund has been set up to finance the building of a hydroelectric power plant and farm initiatives. Hungarian agricultural and food companies are now present in the country “with good results”, he said.

Orbán visits Kyrgyzstan
Orbán visits Kyrgyzstan. Photo: MTI

Meanwhile, Orbán assured the Kyrgyz president that Hungary would support the Kyrgyz initiative to protect mountain culture and way of life at the upcoming Coptic summit in Baku.

Also, 200 Kyrgyz students are studying with a scholarship in Hungary, and Hungary was ready to receive even more students in light of the strong demand.

Orbán said he had expressed his gratitude that Hungarian can now be studied in Kyrgyzstan.

Orbán noted that Hungary joined the Turkic Council in Kyrgyzstan six years ago and has since become a political member of that community. In 2025, an informal Turkish Council meeting will be held in Budapest.

Orbán said Hungarians were the only people from the East that migrated to the West and planted roots here, but they had not forgotten their origins, and always treated the Turkic peoples, including the Kyrgyz, with “friendly and fraternal feelings”.

Orbán visits Kyrgyzstan
Orbán visits Kyrgyzstan. Photo: MTI

During his official visit, Orbán and high-level Kyrgyz officials are scheduled to sign several agreements to advance bilateral cooperation, the PM’s press chief said earlier.

Orbán will also participate in a meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Organisation of Turkic States held in Biskek on Wednesday.

read also: Kyrgyz Embassy opened in 2021 in Budapest

Hungary, Kyrgyzstan to further develop mutually beneficial cooperation

Hungary and Kyrgyzstan plan to further develop mutually beneficial cooperation, which has been raised to the level of confirmed strategic partnership, the foreign minister said in Bishkek on Tuesday.

The ministry cited Péter Szijjártó saying that the relevant agreement was signed earlier in the day. Agreements on air transport, customs and justice affairs, as well as higher education scholarships were also signed, he added.

“All this goes to show that Hungary-Kyrgyz cooperation covers an especially broad area,” he said.

Szijjártó said that economic cooperation was a priority and he welcomed record-high bilateral trade last year, which has doubled this year.

“This clearly shows that both Hungarian and Kyrgyz economic players greatly profit from this cooperation,” he said.

He added that work was under way to further develop cooperation in agriculture and food production. Following successful cooperation in the area of maize seeds, he said, chances are high that honey and lamb from Kyrgyzstan will reach European Union markets through Hungarian trading companies.

“We are setting up a Hungarian seed plant here, and a hydropower plant is being built under the arrangements of cooperation between Hungarian and Kyrgyz companies,” he said.

Szijjártó also said that Hungary is popular among Kyrgyz university students, and 200 of them will get a chance to study at Hungarian universities with a scholarship. More than 600 applications have been submitted for these places, mostly in medical and engineering faculties, he said.

“We will develop cooperation between the two countries in the upcoming period, especially in areas linked to environmental protection and boosting the green economy,” he said.

“We are in agreement that all countries must set their respective economies on the path of growth in a responsible way, which means competitiveness and environmental protection must go hand in hand,” he added.

He praised Kyrgyzstan’s resolute action taken against terrorist organisations, and added that the more successful the fight against terrorism was in Central Asia, the fewer migratory waves could be expected in Europe.

“Accordingly, we support the quickest possible ratification of a cooperation pact between Kyrgyzstan and the EU,” he said.

read also: Hungary has “increasingly close” ties with this authoritarian Asian country, says minister

PM Orbán to await US presidential election results in an unexpected country

Orbán to attend OTS summit, have bilateral talks in Bishkek next week

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is paying an official visit to Kyrgyzstan on Nov 5, Bertalan Havasi, the PM’s press chief, told MTI on Friday, confirming local press reports.

The prime minister’s visit will include high-level talks concerning matters related to Kyrgyzstan and Hungary’s strategic partnership, according to news portals citing the Kyrgyz presidential office. The sides plan to sign several documents aimed at further bolstering bilateral cooperation.

Havasi added that Orbán will attend the summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) in Bishkek on 6 November.

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Experience royalty: The most magnificent castles in Hungary for your next getaway!

Castles in Hungary

There are numerous castles in Hungary, many of which have been beautifully restored to warmly welcome visitors and serve as stunning venues for weddings and other special occasions. Some of these Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau castles are not only historical monuments but have been renovated to serve as hospitals, museums, hotels, exhibition spaces, or even open-air theatres.

Termalfurdo.hu has compiled a list that includes the most charming castles in Hungary. Many of these castles in Hungary either function as spas or are located near renowned thermal baths, making them ideal destinations for those seeking both relaxation and historic charm.

Zala County

Festetics Castle, located in Keszthely, is one of the largest Baroque castles in Hungary. The castle’s construction began in 1745, and the building underwent several renovations in the 18th and 19th centuries, now boasting a total of 101 rooms. Visitors can explore a permanent exhibition on aristocratic life, while the park surrounding the castle is a designated nature reserve. Just 7 kilometres away in Hévíz, the famous thermal baths offer the perfect spot for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.Festetics Castle Thermal Spa

Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Thaler

Nádasdy Castle in Egervár is one of the most significant Renaissance monuments in Central Europe and once played a vital role in the region’s defence. Although partially destroyed after the Rákóczi War of Independence, it now functions as a museum and open-air theatre. The castle’s modern visitor guide system offers insights into Renaissance life. Nearby, the Zalaegerszeg Thermal Baths provide a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind.

Nádasdy Castle Thermal Spa
Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Szvitek Péter

Somogy County

Hertelendy Castle, built in the early 1920s, is now a luxurious five-star hotel. A favourite for weddings and events, it features a large park, spa facilities, a golf course, riding stables, and even its own airport. Its fame was further enhanced when the film S.O.S. Love was shot here. The nearby Nagyatád Thermal and Spa Baths, open all year round, offer visitors a range of relaxing pools.

Hertelendy Castle Thermal Spa
Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Egresij

 

Pallavicini Castle, built in 1906 in the late eclectic style, was once home to Margrave Ede Pallavicini, who found the area’s climate beneficial for his health. Today, it houses the Somogy County Lung and Heart Hospital. The 17-hectare park surrounding the castle is adorned with fountains and scenic walkways, and the nearby Kaposvár Flower Baths provide further opportunities for relaxation.

Pallavicini Castle Thermal Spa Mosdós
Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Civertan

Tolna County

Ozora Castle, nestled in Tolna County, evokes the charm of Renaissance Italy, with decor reminiscent of Italian town palaces. Built in the 15th century and later occupied by the Turks, the castle was converted into a museum in 2007. Visitors can explore period bedrooms, a throne room with a grand fireplace, a Renaissance dining room, and a 15th-century funhouse and kitchen. For those looking to extend their stay, the nearby Tamási Spa offers a variety of relaxation options.

Ozora Castle Thermal Spa
Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Civertan

In Simontornya, Fried Castle, a stunning Art Nouveau building, has been transformed into a charming hotel. It draws guests with its French-style park, elegant rooms, and spa facilities. After being converted into apartments in the 1940s, the castle was reopened as a hotel in 2005. It is now a popular choice for weddings, corporate events, and romantic weekend getaways.

Fried Castle Thermal Spa
Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Egresij

Baranya County

Puchner Castle in Bikal, built in 1840, is now a hotel that offers guests a taste of aristocratic living and historic elegance. The hotel boasts a range of wellness facilities, including French and Moroccan-style baths, an adventure estate, and a sports complex. The nearby Gunaras Spa offers additional relaxation options for visitors.

Puchner Castle Thermal Spa
Source: Wikimedia Comms / Author: Egresij

Hungary is home to many excellent thermal spas, and those mentioned above are just a few of the wonderful options available. Set in beautiful surroundings, these thermal baths and castles in Hungary provide the perfect setting for complete relaxation, blending history with rejuvenation.

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PM Orbán to hold talks in Georgia

PM Viktor Orbán will pay an official visit to Georgia on October 28-29, his press chief said on Sunday, confirming Georgian press reports citing information from the Tbilisi government.

Viktor Orbán in Georgia

According to press reports, PM Orbán has been invited by Irakli Kobakhidze, Georgia‘s prime minister. The Hungarian delegation will include Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, Economic Development Minister Márton Nagy and Finance Minister Mihály Varga.

After one-on-one talks and plenary meetings, Kobakhidze and Orbán will give a joint press conference.

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Hungarian Speaker: “No issue is more important in Europe today than demography”

No issue is more important in Europe today than demography, Speaker of Parliament László Kövér said in Cluj-Napoca (Kolozsvár), in north-western Romania, on Friday, adding that the key question was whether Hungarians, Romanians and Europeans in general could populate the continent.

Kövér told the opening worship service of the festive synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Romania that while the question of who had arrived first in Transylvania was a “constant debate between Hungarians and Romanians”, the most important question was “who will survive on this land”.

The answer to this question, he said, would be provided by demography. The speaker said ethnic Hungarians in Transylvania were loyal to both the state of Romania and the Hungarian nation, and thereby strengthened ethnic peace in Romania and regional political stability.

Hungarian Speaker László Kövér
Speaker Kövér’s address in Kolozsvár. Photo: MTI

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Fidesz MEP to participate on today’s New York Trump rally

The leaders of national delegations in the Patriots for Europe (PfE) group in the European Parliament will pay a working visit to New York on October 26-28, the Fidesz EP group told MTI on Saturday.

They will travel to New York at the invitation of the New York Young Republican Club for talks on European-American relations and further cooperation possibilities as part of the programme series dubbed Europe meets the US.

The Fidesz-Christian Democrats group will be represented by delegation head Tamás Deutsch.

Deutsch said the meeting will be an important step to further strengthen the cooperation between right-wing, patriot forces.

Tamás Deutsch elected vice president of the Budapest Fidesz this Friday:

The PfE national delegation leaders will attend a campaign rally of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on October 27.

Donald Trump new york
Photo: FB/Trump

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This has not happened in the Hungarian foreign ministry for 41 years

Hungary is ready to build a mutually beneficial cooperation with Cuba as a country that has an open, export-driven economy and is seeking the possibility of cooperation with any willing country, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said after meeting his Cuban counterpart in Budapest on Friday. According to Szijjártó, it has not happened for 41 years that Cuba’s foreign minister visited Budapest.

At a joint press conference with Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Szijjártó noted that the last time a Cuban foreign minister had paid a visit to Hungary was in 1983. He said that despite their geographical distance of almost 9,000 kilometres there were areas of cooperation for the two countries to further explore, according to a ministry statement.

The minister announced that they had signed cooperation agreements including one in science and innovation that allows coordinated developments in the area of health-sciences, for instance in biotechnology and nuclear medicine. It could also contribute to the soonest possible achievement of carbon neutrality and food safety, he said.

This has not happened in the Hungarian foreign ministry for 41 years Cuban FM in Budapest
Szijjártó with HE Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla. Photo: FB/Szijjártó

He noted that under the cooperation ten Cuban students would continue to receive a state scholarship annually to study at a Hungarian university.

“And an agreement concluded between our foreign affairs institute and Cuba’s research institute for foreign affairs will allow young people specialised in foreign affairs studies to expand their knowledge,” the minister said.

Cuban FM came from BRICS summit

Szijjártó said that since his Cuban colleague arrived in Budapest straight from the BRICS summit in Kazan, he could get information “first hand” about that event.

He noted the upcoming meeting of the European Political Community’s leaders scheduled for early next month in Budapest and expressed hope that once in future the leaders of major western and eastern countries will sit down to the same negotiating table, “enabling that the next decades of the world should be about connectivity and respectful global cooperation rather than about the emergence of blocs”.

The minister said such a development would be highly needed at a time when mankind was facing challenges that affected all people irrespective of their political orientation, sympathies or the geographical location where they live.

“Nobody can hide from war, terrorism or challenges posed by energy and food safety. These are all global problems that need global solutions; and global solutions can only be found if we are capable of building up a respectful global cooperation.”

“Hungary will do its small part in promoting that, since we believe in dialogue, to have a dialogue is a lot better than having none….,” the minister said.

Hungarian foreign minister supports easing embargo on Cuba

Meanwhile, Szijjártó said that Hungary also supported the resolution to be submitted for a vote next week in the United Nations General Assembly on easing the US embargo on Cuba.

“And before some busy-bodies file reports claiming that what an anti-West position Hungary has endorsed again, I would like to emphasise that [the resolution’s support] is a uniform position of the European Union,” said Szijjártó, adding that an agreement signed between the EU and Cuba a couple of years ago could not take effect in full in the absence of EU-member Lithuania’s ratification.

“Interestingly, the international liberal mainstream has not labelled Lithuania for being a member that undermines European unity. Whereas, interestingly, labelling comes immediately when Hungary happens to reject a measure in the EU.”

Szijjártó noted that Hungarian-Cuban cooperation looked back on a long past, adding that the two countries will mark the 65th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties next year.

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PHOTOS: Exhibition about the Hungarian Parliament opened in Türkiye

Parliamentary Speaker László Kövér arrived in Türkiye for an official visit on Tuesday.

He opened an exhibition dubbed Parliament on the Danube Bank at Istanbul’s Tarik Zafer Tunaya Cultural Centre.

The exhibition has been organised under the arrangements of the Hungarian-Turkish Cultural Year by the Parliament’s public collections directorate, the Hungarian embassy and the Liszt Institute – Hungarian Cultural Centre Istanbul.

Kövér told the opening event that Hungarian-Turkish relations had a long history but “despite the ties of kinship, unfortunately the period when our countries when our countries were fighting against each other had lasted too long.”

Exhibition about the Hungarian Parliament opened in Türkiye
Photo: MTI

He added, however, that the Hungarian people would never forget that Ilona Zrinyi, Imre Thokoly, Ferenc Rakoczi II, Lajos Kossuth and “many of our heroes found refuge on Turkish land.

The purpose of the exhibition is to present to visitors the Parliament building and its cultural features, and to attract tourists to visit the building in Budapest.

Exhibition about the Hungarian Parliament opened in Türkiye
Photo: MTI

The Hungarian-Turkish Cultural Year organised to mark the 100th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Hungary and Türkiye offers an opportunity to strengthen cultural cooperation between the two countries.

Kövér will continue his official visit in Ankara where he will hold talks with his host Numan Kurtulmus, speaker of the Grand National Assembly, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Exhibition about the Hungarian Parliament opened in Türkiye
László Kövér opening the exhibition. Photo: MTI

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Summer success: Here are the most popular Hungarian destinations among foreign tourists

foreign tourists balaton summer

The 2024 summer season exceeded all expectations in Hungarian tourism, largely boosted by the increased number of foreign tourists. Between June and August, Hungary saw a 14 percent increase in the number of foreign visitors, with more than 3 million international tourists spending nearly 8 million nights in Hungarian accommodations.

As reported by Lelépő, more than 1.7 million tourists visited the Hungarian capital, Budapest, in the summer of 2024. To put this number into perspective: more than half of of all overnight stays booked by foreign tourists have been registered in Budapest which made the capital stand out not only in terms of the number of visitors but also in terms of total revenue. International visitors produced the overwhelming majority of hotel revenues: 90 percent, or almost HUF 103 billion (more than EUR 256 million).

Rural hotels and other accommodation providers also performed well, especially in spa towns and around Lake Balaton. 1.4 million foreign tourists visited Hungary outside the capital, generating nearly 4 million overnight stays and HUF 67 billion (almost EUR 167 million) of revenue, which is a 13 percent increase outside Budapest and 15 percent around Lake Balaton.

foreign tourists siofok swans
Swans in Lake Balaton near Siófok, Hungary. Photo: depositphotos.com

Most tourists came from Germany, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom. The number of British and Slovakian tourists increased by 9 percent each compared to the previous year, while the number of Chinese visitors doubled in the same period.

The successful summer season underlines the importance of tourism in the economy of Hungary, as revenues generated by the sector account for 12 percent of the country’s GDP. According to Olivér Csendes, CEO of Visit Hungary, the successful summer season is significant not only in terms of immediate results but also in terms of annual tourism turnover, as almost 37 percent of annual foreign overnight stays are generated in the summer period.

These were the most popular destinations among foreign tourists

Outside the capital, Lake Balaton, Bük-Sárvár, and the Mátra-Bükk regions, Debrecen (the second largest city in Hungary), Siófok, Hajdúszoboszló, and Hévíz (three of the most popular towns by Lake Balaton) attracted the most visitors.

foreign tourists matra
Mátra mountains in northern Hungary. Photo: depositphotos.com
foreign tourists debrecen
Main square of Debrecen, Hungary. Photo: depositphotos.com
  • Read more about the magic of Lake Balaton here.
  • Here you can find the best Hungarian towns to visit this autumn.
  • Discover the Mátra mountains and other stunning regions of the Hungarian countryside here.

Featured image: depositphotos.com

PHOTOS: The Hungarian President in Auschwitz

President Tamás Sulyok commemorated the victims of the Holocaust at a visit at the Auschwitz memorial site and museum on Saturday.

Sulyok laid a wreath at the “Death Wall”, where thousands of people were executed by firing squad during the second world war. He lit a candle in commemoration of the Hungarian victims of the holocaust in Camp 1, and at the Hungarian-language plaque at Camp 2.

In the guest book, Sulyok wrote: “I came because all Hungarians should come here once, so they can see what human evil can do. We can’t forget or replace the lives destroyed here. Many of them were my compatriots, one of us. Walking among the barracks, I feel that pain or sadness is not enough. We need a determined commitment to good and against evil. We can’t let any more people be taken away from us.”

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Budapest chosen as one of the top 15 affordable destinations to visit this autumn

Good news for sightseeing enthusiasts: in a recent study, Compare the Market assessed the cost of food, transport, and accommodation in several popular destinations and compiled a list of the most affordable destinations in Europe to visit this autumn. Budapest, the Hungarian capital, has made it onto this list as one of the best budget-friendly destinations for a quick city break.

Although the end of the year is fast approaching, it’s not too late to plan a short European getaway this autumn, offering a chance to unwind before the busy holiday season. While last-minute bookings can often be pricier, as Travelo points out in their report, choosing the right destination can help save a great deal.

Before compiling the list of the top affordable destinations, Compare the Market analysed key factors such as the cost of a meal per person, local transport, the price of an Airbnb stay, and the number of Instagram posts, to identify the best affordable cities for a quick European break.

This year, Compare the Market named Istanbul, the bustling Turkish capital, as the top value destination. It’s hardly surprising, with the average meal costing just £7.31 (€8.73), a one-way transport ticket priced at 43p (€0.51), and an Airbnb averaging £68 (€81.23) per night.

blue mosque istanbul affordable destinations
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul. Photo: depositphotos.com

Warsaw came in second, with the average Airbnb costing just GBP 65 (EUR 77.66) per night.

warsaw affordable destinations
The Old Town of Warsaw. Photo: depositphotos.com

Budapest ranked third, where food and accommodation are also relatively inexpensive by European standards.

budapest affordable destinations
The Hungarian Parliament in Budapest. Photo: depositphotos.com

It’s worth noting that the list of the most affordable destinations also includes some notoriously expensive cities, which are probably ranked higher because of the number of Instagram posts they have attracted. These include Vienna, the capital of Austria (14th), and Paris (15th), Timeout reports.

These are the best affordable destinations for autumn 2024

  1. Istanbul
  2. Warsaw
  3. Budapest
  4. Krakow
  5. Prague
  6. Heraklion
  7. Oporto
  8. Athens
  9. Tallinn
  10. Madrid
  11. Seville
  12. Lyon
  13. Lisbon
  14. Vienna
  15. Paris

Budapest also ranked among the friendliest European destinations

In a recent survey, Condé Nast Traveler asked its readers to vote for the friendliest European cities in their experience. The list of the ten best destinations in this regard included cities everywhere from Eastern Europe to the Mediterranean, with Stockholm, Sweden’s capital at the top, scoring 94.07 points.

Budapest claimed second place, with a score of 91.88 points, despite not making the top 10 last year. Valencia, Spain, secured third place with 91 points.

The report highlighted Budapest’s reputation as the “City of Spas,” with over 100 natural springs feeding its thermal baths. It also praised the city’s stunning and diverse architecture, as well as the pride locals take in their city and their eagerness to share it with visitors. You can read our full report on Condé Nast Traveler’s ranking here.

Discover the must-visit attractions in Istanbul, the top-ranked city on the list:

…and Budapest, our bronze medalist with just as many captivating sights to explore:

Featured picture: depositphotos.com

President Sulyok: Hungary serving Europe and its citizens in a responsible way – PHOTOS

Hungary is serving Europe and its citizens in a responsible way, President Tamás Sulyok said after the annual meeting of the Arraiolos Group, in Cracow on Friday.

Hungary and Poland have a bond through their thousand-year history, and Hungary has a similarly strong bond with Europe, he told a press conference.

“Europe is for us about our Christian faith and values and about our self-identity. We Hungarians view Europe as a free community of sovereign nations that share the same cultural roots and values,” the president said.

President Tamás Sulyok in Cracow
Photo: MTI

Hungary is for this reason committed to strengthening Europe and the European communities, protecting the continent’s interests and preserving its peace, he said.

Speaking to Hungarian journalists, Sulyok said the meeting had addressed issues affecting Europe and the global geopolitical situation including the Russia-Ukraine war, energy security, the EU’s competitiveness, economic problems and EU enlargement.

President Tamás Sulyok in Cracow
Photo: MTI

The participants were in agreement that further delaying progress in the integration of the Western Balkans countries would compromise the EU’s credibility in those countries.

Sulyok said that the topic of next month’s US elections also came up and the meeting’s position was that it would not basically influence the situation regarding Europe’s defence capabilities.

“We all were in agreement that the US and NATO are important stakeholders in providing for Europe’s security, yet, Europe’s defence capabilities must be strengthened.”

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President of Kazakh parliament visits Hungary

Hungary’s Speaker of Parliament, László Kövér, has received Kazakh counterpart Yerlan Koshanov, who is in Budapest on an official visit.

Kövér said Central Asia was a Hungarian foreign policy priority and relations were based on mutual respect, focusing on economic, trade and energy cooperation.

The office of parliament on Monday quoted the speaker as saying that Hungary was proud of its 2010 policy of opening up to the East, saying “our interests coincide” in terms of European energy security, action against terrorism and the consequences of climate change.

He said that under its EU presidency, Hungary will encourage the bloc to tighten cooperation with Kazakhstan, adding that it was in no one’s interest for “an iron curtain to separate the Eastern and Western halves of the world.”

The stability of Kazakhstan and the Commonwealth of Turkic States “is vitally important in this dangerous world”,

he said, adding that regional instability undermined global stability.

He noted that Hungary and Kazakhstan are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership this year, a decade of mutually “beneficial cooperation” and “fast-developing friendly relations”.

Regarding parliamentary ties, Kövér referred to the continuous development of cooperation both on a bilateral basis and within the framework of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkish-Speaking States.

The speakers were in agreement that sanctions against Russia led “nowhere”, while UN resolutions, diplomacy and international law provided the only viable path to a peaceful resolution. Kosanov said Kazakhstan would be glad to host peace negotiations.

He also thanked Hungary for providing scholarships for 250 Kazakh university students who wish to study in Hungary.

The two speakers signed a cooperation agreement between the Hungarian assembly and the Kazakh lower house.

Kazakhstan held a referendum on Sunday on whether to build its first nuclear power plant, and more than 71% of voters backed the idea, which was backed by President Kazim-Yomart Tokayev’s cabinet as a way to phase out polluting coal-fired power plants. This is a key change in the country’s energy strategy, which has faced significant challenges due to ageing energy infrastructure and dependence on Russia.

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Tineke Strik in Budapest: EU aims to protect the Hungarians from concentration of power and corruption

Tineke Strik

Tineke Strik, the European Parliament’s rapporteur on the rule of law in Hungary visited Budapest last week. In an interview, she shared her general opinion on Hungary, as well as insights into the rule of law issue, frozen EU funds and the lack of Erasmus programme opportunities for Hungarian youth.

Tineke Strik in Hungary

Tineke Strik, the Dutch Green Party MEP and newly appointed European Parliament rapporteur on the rule of law in Hungary, visited Budapest last week. In an interview with Telex, she discussed her perspective on Hungary’s rule of law situation, her thoughts on the EU’s actions, and her efforts to engage with the Hungarian government. Strik also noted that this was not her first visit, having been to Hungary multiple times, including during her university career and twice in her last parliamentary term, both for rule of law concerns.

Tineke Strik
Photo: Facebook / Tineke Strik

Judgement on Hungary

Tineke Strik, the European Parliament’s rapporteur on the rule of law in Hungary, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in the country. She highlighted growing issues such as smear campaigns, state propaganda, and the targeting of teachers, judges, and NGOs, which are fostering a climate of fear and control throughout society. Strik criticised the government for creating insecurity by using emergency powers to bypass institutions like the National Assembly.

Although she attempted to engage with government representatives, her requests for meetings were declined. Instead, she consulted with the Fundamental Rights Commissioner and the Integrity Authority, as well as visiting regions beyond Budapest to gain a broader perspective.

The rule of law issue

Tineke Strik criticised the ineffectiveness of the Article 7 procedure, which has been ongoing for six years without significant action. She expressed frustration that despite numerous hearings, EU Member States have not made any formal recommendations to address Hungary’s rule of law breaches. Strik noted that reluctance among Member States to criticise each other and fear of exposing divisions in the Council of Ministers has stalled progress, with many adopting a short-term approach.

Strik also addressed the Hungarian government’s argument regarding the suspension of Article 7 in Poland, acknowledging that the EU’s swift action in resuming funding might have given Hungary an excuse to undermine the procedure. However, she highlighted that Poland’s new government has introduced a plan to restore the rule of law. Strik believes more time should have been taken to assess Poland’s situation to avoid the perception of double standards.

EU funds and Erasmus

During the interview, Tineke Strik reacted to the Hungarian government’s criticism that the European Parliament seeks to cut off funds from Hungarian citizens. She emphasised that the EU’s actions aim to protect the Hungarian people from the concentration of power and corruption. Strik criticised the misuse of EU funds, which she argues are benefiting corrupt politicians and oligarchs rather than citizens. She highlighted the need for greater transparency and support for Hungarian movements fighting for the rule of law, warning that lifting the current freeze on funds would only enable further corruption.

Strik also acknowledged the negative impact on citizens, such as Hungarian students being excluded from Erasmus programmes. She called for exceptions to be made to ensure young people can experience life in free societies, which may shift public opinion. Strik stressed that ongoing reforms agreed between the Hungarian government and the European Commission must be implemented in practice, not just on paper. She urged the European Commission to take a more critical approach to ensure genuine judicial independence and effective anti-corruption measures, warning that once EU funds are unfrozen, it would be harder to halt them again if reforms are not fully realised.

European Union Hungary Poland venice commission EU funds
Photo: facebook.com/EuropeanCommission

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