Islamabad – Pakistan and Hungary have signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance cooperation in the fields of culture and archaeology. Both countries also agreed to mutually waive visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations.
High-Level Meeting Between Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Hungary
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, arrived in Pakistan with a high-level business delegation on the invitation of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
During a joint press conference in Islamabad, Péter Szijjártó expressed his pleasure over the visa waiver agreement, stating:
> “We are happy to sign this agreement for visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders as a sign of our intention to further strengthen our relationship.”
Agreements to Boost Cultural Ties and Multilateral Cooperation
According to Radio Pakistan, both nations not only agreed to the mutual visa exemption but also signed MoUs for collaboration in culture and archaeology. The two sides committed to enhancing cooperation in multilateral forums, including the United Nations.
Péter Szijjártó expressed satisfaction over the doubling of trade between Hungary and Pakistan and highlighted Hungarian companies’ contributions in food security and water management projects within Pakistan.
He also announced:
> “We offer 400 scholarships annually for Pakistani students.”
Strengthening Bilateral Relations through Shared History and Values
Speaking on the MoUs, the Hungarian Minister noted that both Pakistan and Hungary have rich histories and have made significant sacrifices for their freedom and independence.
He called Pakistan a reliable partner and stated that Hungary supports the extension of Pakistan’s GSP+ status beyond 2027, emphasizing mutual interest in economic and political cooperation.
After the meeting, the Hungarian Minister thanked Ishaq Dar via a post on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging Pakistan’s hospitality and celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Focus on Trade, Education, and Regional Issues
During the press conference, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted mutual interest in collaborating in various sectors, including:
– Agriculture
– Energy
– Healthcare
– Information Technology
– Industrial Manufacturing
He also briefed the Hungarian delegation on regional issues, especially Pakistan’s principled stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, advocating its resolution in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.
Discussions on Terrorism, Security, and Afghanistan
Péter Szijjártó appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism and acknowledged the shared security challenges both countries face in their respective regions.
> “There remains a serious threat of terrorism from Afghanistan,” he stated, warning of a potential increase in illegal migration to Europe due to the prevailing situation.
He emphasized Hungary’s appreciation for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and its role in regional stability.
Hungary’s Stance on Ukraine War and Peace Negotiations
Addressing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the Hungarian Foreign Minister criticized some European politicians for allegedly undermining peace talks in Ukraine.
He urged European countries not to sabotage peace initiatives led by former U.S. President Donald Trump, and called for dialogue and mutual respect to form the basis of international politics.
