Hírek
Hungarian lawmaker comments on prospects of restoring diplomatic relations with Armenia
Hungarian Member of Parliament, Chairman of the Parliamentary Friendship Group with the Republic of Armenia at the Hungarian Parliament Mihaly Balla commented on the prospects of normalization of relations between Armenia and Hungary and possible directions for cooperation.
In an interview with ARMENPRESS, the Hungarian MP said he believes that at this stage, cooperation aimed at the fostering direct people-to people contacts between the two peoples can be particularly effective, with special focus on education and culture in this context. MP Balla also pointed out the economy and tourism for possibilities of cooperation.
On December 2, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Armenia and Hungary made a statement about restoring full diplomatic relations. How do you see the prospects for the development of relations between two countries?
Mihaly Balla: There are historical and cultural ties between the Armenian and Hungarian peoples that are reflected by the presence of the Armenian community and the Armenian cultural heritage in Hungary. The Armenians living in Hungary historically contributed to the development of Hungary, and today they are part of the Hungarian society with special status enshrined in the Constitution of Hungary.
I am glad that quite recently, a parliamentary friendship group with Armenia was formed in our Parliament under my chairmanship. This honorable task is also important to me for personal reasons.
Notably, the parliamentary representative of the Armenian minority of Hungary is also the member of this group. I hope that similar friendship group will be formed in the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia.
I am convinced that the parliamentary diplomacy and regular contacts can also contribute to the gradual improvement and development of bilateral relations. In my opinion, we have such a potential, and today, with the meeting and the joint statement of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Hungary, a new page can be opened in our bilateral relations. It is our responsibility to do our best to use these new opportunities.
ARMENPRESS: Despite this dynamic, there are still negative memories in Armenian society. What is your approach to this matter?
Mihaly Balla: As representatives of Hungary, at different levels and formats we have constantly expressed our deep regret and pain regarding the brutal murder of Armenian soldier Gurgen Margaryan. What happened then was unacceptable in all aspects for all of us, and we realize that time is required to heal these wounds. However, today we must look forward and take necessary steps towards the rapprochement of our societies and gradual development of interstate relations.
I believe that restoration of relations and creation of multidimensional agenda will pave the way to address all the issues between our two peoples and we can revive the historical and cultural relations between our countries.
ARMENPRESS: What are the initial directions that the Hungarian Government is considering to cooperate with Armenia?
Mihaly Balla: I believe that at this stage, cooperation aimed at the fostering direct human contacts between the two peoples can be particularly effective. In this context, the cooperation opportunities in the fields of education and culture can be considered primarily.
I also see opportunities in the fields of economy and tourism, as well as in the context of establishment of inter-parliamentary contacts. A special role can be given to ecumenical contacts between our Churches.
The article was written by Lala Hayrapetyan and Tatevik Muradyan (2022-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000080624)
Hírek
Sevan and Balatonalmádi Sign Sister City Agreement
On February 26, in the city of Balatonalmádi, Hungary, a sister city agreement was signed between Sevan and Balatonalmádi, marking the beginning of cultural and economic cooperation between the two cities.
The agreement was signed by Balatonalmádi Mayor László Berényi and Deputy Mayor of Sevan, Gegharkunik Province, Arman Harutyunyan. The meeting was attended by Armenian Ambassador to Hungary Ashot Smbatyan, Armenian National Self-Government Spokesperson Nikogos Akopyan, President of the Armenian National Self-Government of Hungary István Czárán, and Honorary Consul of Armenia in Hungary Dr. Géza Abkarovics. The parties discussed a wide range of opportunities related to cooperation between Sevan and Balatonalmádi based on the signed agreement.
The selection of these two cities for the agreement was no coincidence. Months prior, during a meeting between Armenian Ambassador Ashot Smbatyan and Balatonalmádi Mayor László Berényi, the possibility of cooperation with the city of Sevan was discussed, considering their geographical location and similarities. Balatonalmádi, situated on the shores of Lake Balaton, shares geographical characteristics with Sevan, which is also located by its namesake lake.
The signing of this agreement is a significant event, serving as the first of its kind in the developing relations between Armenia and Hungary.
Article written by: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879
Photos uploaded: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879
Hírek
Armenian Figure Skaters at the World Junior Figure Skating Championship in Debrecen
From February 26 to March 2, the World Junior Figure Skating Championship took place in Debrecen, Hungary, where Armenian athletes Mikael Salazaryan and Sofia Titova competed under the leadership of coaches Gegham Vardanyan, Sergey Alexeyev, and team manager Elen Hambardzumyan.
The World Junior Figure Skating Championship is considered one of the most prestigious competitions in the sport, bringing together the best young figure skaters from around the world every year.
The Armenian athletes delivered excellent performances in both the short and free programs, demonstrating high technical skill. Their successful performances once again highlighted Armenia’s growing engagement in winter sports.
To support the young athletes, Armenian Ambassador to Hungary, Ashot Smbatyan, traveled to Debrecen and attended the championship. Following the competitions, he met with the Armenian figure skaters and their coaching team, wishing them continued success and victories in their mission to proudly represent Armenia on the international sports stage.
Article written by: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879
Photos uploaded: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879
Hírek
The Armenian church of Budapest celebrates Trndez
On February 2, the Armenian community in Budapest celebrated Trndez (Tyarnndarach) at the Armenian Catholic Church. The festive day began with a Sunday Liturgy, highlighting the spiritual significance of Trndez. Following the service, a traditional bonfire was lit in the churchyard, around which the “Havq” dance group performed songs and dances, continuing the celebration. Afterward, a small reception was held inside the church, where guests enjoyed traditional treats, including aghandz (roasted wheat and nuts).
The origins of Trndez date back to the pre-Christian era, when it was associated with the myth of the fire god Vahagn, who helped “defeat” winter after which spring arrived. After the adoption of Christianity, the holiday was linked to the Presentation of Christ and has remained a cherished tradition, symbolizing the blessing of families, lovers, and the coming of spring.
Article written by: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879
Photos uploaded: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879
-
Hírek2 years agoArmenia celebrates 31st anniversary of establishment of the army
-
Hírek1 year agoMFA Statement
-
Hírek2 years agoTimes Square Commemoration of 108th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide
-
Hírek1 year agoPan-Armenian school film competition
-
Hírek1 year agoPress Statement of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan during the joint press conference with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary
-
Hírek2 years agoOn September 18, a concert dedicated to the Independence Day of the Republic of Armenia took place in the Roman Hall of the Hungarian Art Museum in Budapest, followed by an official reception in the Renaissance Hall.
-
Hírek1 year agoNew Year event for children
-
Hírek1 year agoDeputy Foreign Minister of Armenia Paruyr Hovhannisyan received the Hungarian delegation led by Miklos Panyi, the Deputy Minister of the Hungarian Prime Minister’s Office and Tristan Azbej, Secretary of State for the «Hungary Helps» Programme.