BUDAPEST, April 2, 2024 - In a meeting held on Sunday as part of a working visit to Budapest, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with his Hungarian counterpart, Péter Szijjártó. The discussion focused on strengthening the bonds between the United Arab Emirates and Hungary, with both parties expressing a desire to expand cooperation across various sectors.
The foreign ministers also exchanged views on current regional and international developments of shared interest. Sheikh Abdullah and Szijjártó underscored the significance of enhanced collaboration in tackling global challenges and fostering peace and stability. Specific details regarding the precise issues addressed or any agreements reached during the meeting remain undisclosed.
The UAE and Hungary have historically maintained cordial relations. Sheikh Abdullah's visit to Budapest serves as a testament to the UAE's commitment to forging stronger ties with Hungary. The UAE views Hungary as a strategically important partner in Europe, and both nations share an interest in fostering economic and political cooperation.
There is significant potential for growth in UAE-Hungary trade relations. The UAE serves as a vital gateway for Hungarian goods to access the Middle East and broader Asian markets, while Hungary offers an entry point for UAE exports into Central Europe. Both nations have undertaken initiatives to streamline trade ties, and Hungarian companies have shown increasing interest in investing in the UAE's burgeoning sectors, such as renewable energy and infrastructure.
Beyond trade, the UAE and Hungary collaborate in areas like education and culture. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in February 2022 between the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and the Hungarian Diplomatic Academy exemplifies this growing cooperation in the field of education. This MoU facilitates exchange programs for diplomats from both countries.
The UAE and Hungary's convergence on the importance of international cooperation bodes well for the future of their bilateral relationship. The discussions held during Sheikh Abdullah's visit to Budapest are a positive step towards solidifying ties between the two nations and creating a framework for broader collaboration on issues of mutual concern.