“Within the framework of bilateral talks, Hungary has come to an agreement with Portugal on the significant expansion of cooperation on consular representation”, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó told Hungarian news agency MTI in a recess during the two-day meeting of NATO member states in Brussels on Tuesday.

Mr. Szijjártó explained that in accordance with the agreement Portugal will be issuing visas in representation of Hungary in several Portuguese-speaking African countries, while Hungary will be issuing Portuguese visas in Far Eastern countries with which Hungary maintains excellent relations within the framework of its Eastern Opening foreign trade policy and in which the Mediterranean country currently has no foreign representation.

“The advantage of the agreement is that both countries can expand their consular visa issuing presence with no added expenditure”, he added.

The Minister also informed the press that he and his Portuguese counterpart has agreed to tighten cooperation with regard to EU and NATO enlargement in the Western Balkans. “Both Hungary and Portugal believe that this is the only path to maintaining peace and stability”, he stressed.

Mr. Szijjártó told MTI that the Portuguese language is gaining ground within the Hungarian education system, in recognition of which Portugal provided significant support to enable Hungary to become an observer member of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), which is a major acknowledgement for the country”, the Hungarian Foreign Minister highlighted.

(MTI/Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade)