Within the framework of the bilateral consultation mechanism established between Hungary and the Arab Republic of Egypt, Deputy State Secretary for Opening to the South Szilveszter Bus held talks with Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt Ihab Nasr in Budapest on 30 March 2017.

During the talks, both sides praised the friendly and exemplary bilateral relations and meaningful cooperation shared between the two countries. The planned official visit to Hungary of President of Egypt Abdel Fattah al-Sisi will represent another milestone in our political relations.

Szilveszter Bus emphasized that the Hungarian Government is paying close attention to the unfolding events and political transitions taking place in the Middle East and highly appreciates the efforts of the Egyptian authorities to stabilise the security, and economic and political life of Egypt.

The Deputy State Secretary stressed that the role of Egypt in maintaining stability is crucial not only for the countries of the region but also from a European perspective, and accordingly Hungary is a committed supporter of Egypt’s efforts in international forums. Mr. Bus reported on the steps taken to protect Christian communities in the Middle East, and expressed his gratitude to the Egyptian political leadership for its commitment to guaranteeing the safety of the Christian communities living in their country.

The Deputy State Secretary emphasised that the Hungarian Government has offered 100 Stipendium Hungaricum scholarships for Egyptian students to study in Hungary, a step which further contributes to the strengthening of our bilateral relations.

During the meeting, both sides reemphasised that based on their outstanding bilateral political relations joint efforts should be taken to further develop bilateral trade and economic cooperation and to expand direct business links between enterprises.

Although Egypt is Hungary’s most prominent export partner among the Arab countries, there is still untapped potential for establishing joint ventures within amongst others the fields of vehicle manufacturing, agriculture, the application of renewable energy sources and health tourism. The upcoming session of the Hungarian-Egyptian Joint Economic Committee due to be held this year in Cairo provides an excellent opportunity for companies to utilise these business opportunities.

(Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade)