ISLAMABAD – Hungary announced 400 fully funded scholarships for Pakistani students on Thursday, while several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two countries to enhance bilateral cooperation.
At a joint press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar welcomed the Hungarian Foreign Minister on his second visit to Pakistan. He said this visit would further strengthen decades-long relations between the two nations.
Ishaq Dar described Hungary as a “positive and beneficial friend” to Pakistan and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. He highlighted Hungary’s contributions to Pakistan’s industrial sector through partnerships, such as with the Mughal Group, noting that over 100 individuals have showcased their skills in trade and industry with Hungary’s support.
The Foreign Minister announced that Pakistan and Hungary have recently signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade and industry. The two sides also discussed the situation in Gaza.
Regarding regional challenges, Minister Dar informed his Hungarian counterpart about the security concerns Pakistan faces from Afghanistan. He mentioned the ongoing diplomatic engagements between Pakistan and Afghanistan and noted Hungary’s positive response to this issue.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó addressed the media, announcing that diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Hungary have reached a milestone of 60 years. He emphasised the need to further strengthen bilateral ties across various sectors, including trade, industry, and culture, while highlighting several commonalities between the two nations.
He affirmed Hungary’s awareness of the challenges Pakistan faces due to its border with Afghanistan and expressed support for Pakistan’s efforts toward regional peace. “We see Pakistan as a good friend working for stability in the region,” he stated.
Commenting on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Szijjártó noted that both Hungary and Pakistan share a desire for peace in the region. He criticised certain European countries for not supporting a resolution to the ongoing war.
The Hungarian Foreign Minister officially announced that 400 fully funded scholarships would be offered to Pakistani students. He mentioned that Hungary has already received nearly 1,700 applications from Pakistan.
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