Hungary’s Foreign Affairs Minister Peter Szijjarto pays tribute to the enduring and dynamic partnership between Hungary and Japan
The relationship of Hungary and Japan has arrived at an important milestone, as this year marks the 155th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations, which have never been better.
The importance of Japan cannot be overemphasized, as we are talking about a member of the Group of Seven leading industrialized countries with one of the largest economies in the world. Japan’s influence on the development of the global economy is of extraordinary magnitude, and therefore cooperation with Japan is of paramount importance for export-oriented countries that have open economies like Hungary.
Hungary is enjoying its best-ever relations with Japan in the fields of economy and trade, politics and culture, and education, and we are proud that investments by Japanese companies with state-of-the-art technology continue to arrive in our country. There are currently more than 190 Japanese companies operating in Hungary that not only contribute to our modernization and our competitiveness through their capital, technological expertise and work ethic, but also provide some 50,000 jobs. These are all jobs that provide a predictable life for Hungarian families. The economic success of our countries is underlined by the fact that last year saw a record level of Hungarian exports to Japan, exceeding $1 billion for the first time.
The Hungarian EU presidency is committed to strengthening EU-Asia relations and will pay particular attention to enhancing trade, investment and connectivity between the two continents. During our presidency, we shall promote the deepening of the EU’s existing strategic partnership with Japan.
Hungary and Japan both consider bilateral cooperation to be of strategic importance. Our governments regard the development of Japanese-Hungarian bilateral relations as an important goal, and the fact that our political will has been followed by action over the past 155 years is a testament to that.
To increase its presence in Japan, Hungary will establish a consulate in Osaka that is scheduled to open soon. The significance of this comes also from the fact that next year Osaka will host the World Expo, where Hungary will have a large pavilion showcasing our economy as well as our tourist and cultural attractions.
Hungary and Japan both consider bilateral cooperation to be of strategic importance. Our governments regard the development of Japanese-Hungarian bilateral relations as an important goal, and the fact that our political will has been followed by action over the past 155 years is a testament to that. In the upcoming period, Hungarian-Japanese cooperation will continue to play a positive role in strengthening Hungary and the Hungarian economy.
