Hungary pledges stronger ties, GSP Plus support, student aid for Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó in Islamabad, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

According to state-run APP, Hungarian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó, who is visiting Pakistan at the invitation of Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, led a high-level business delegation to Islamabad.

During the meeting, Hungary assured Pakistan of continued support for its GSP Plus status and pledged collaboration on multilateral platforms. The Hungarian minister also announced 400 annual scholarships for Pakistani students.

In a symbolic gesture to strengthen bilateral ties, both countries signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) covering cooperation in culture, archaeology, and visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders.

Addressing a joint press conference with Ishaq Dar, Szijjártó said, “We are pleased to have signed an agreement eliminating visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders. This step reflects our intent to deepen bilateral relations.”

Szijjártó expressed satisfaction over the doubling of bilateral trade and highlighted Hungarian companies’ involvement in food security and water management projects in Pakistan. He also noted that Hungary offers 400 scholarships annually to Pakistani students.

He praised Pakistan as a reliable partner and confirmed Hungary’s support for the continuation of Pakistan’s GSP Plus status beyond 2027, citing mutual benefits.

Reflecting on the historical richness of both nations, Szijjártó said the cultural agreements celebrate a shared legacy of sacrifice for independence and sovereignty.

Taking to X after the meeting, the Hungarian foreign minister thanked Dar for his hospitality and noted that the two countries are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Speaking to the media, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said both sides share a keen interest in strengthening cooperation in agriculture, energy, healthcare, information technology, and industrial manufacturing.

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Both ministers stressed the importance of dialogue and mutual respect as the foundation of international relations.