Ambassador Titanilla Tóth of Hungary on Thursday celebrated the 67th anniversary of Hungary’s 1956 Revolution, emphasizing the robust bilateral relationship with the Philippines, established in 1973.
Ambassador Tóth cited the shared historical struggles for democracy between the two nations, reinforcing their mutual commitment to democratic values.
Economic Collaboration
Bilateral trade has surged, reaching over $199 million in 2023, with significant activity in agricultural products, machinery, and pharmaceuticals.
A political consultation in June 2024 in Manila further solidified economic ties, with Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó discussing cooperation with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
High-Level Engagements
Recent diplomatic exchanges included a notable visit from former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and his delegation, which strengthened parliamentary relations.
Minister Szijjártó and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo also focused on trade agreements and investment opportunities, expressing a desire to expand cooperation in education and technology.
Cultural and Educational Initiatives
Cultural diplomacy has played a key role in strengthening ties. A visit by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Hungarian Business Council to Budapest allowed 24 Philippine companies to engage with Hungarian businesses across various sectors.
In addition, Hungary’s Stipendium Hungarikum program will offer 35 scholarships to Filipino students, promoting academic exchanges.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Ambassador Tóth announced plans for a Business Forum in December and a Joint Commission Economic Cooperation meeting to explore new trade opportunities.
She expressed gratitude to supporters of the diplomatic mission and reaffirmed the commitment to deepen Hungary-Philippines relations for the future.
“Together, let us build on this friendship as we look ahead to the next 50 years,” she stated.
Source: Politiko
Share:
<p>Time: 2024 By: Ministry of Industry and Trade</p>
