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PM Orbán becomes first Hungarian prime minister to pay official visit to Kyrgyzstan

The prime minister held talks in Bishkek with the Kyrgyz head of state Sooronbay Jeenbekov. The two leaders discussed strengthening economic, tourism, scientific and cultural cooperation between the two countries, and signed an important agreement on tourism

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has said he sees it as a personal privilege to be the first Hungarian prime minister to pay an official visit to Kyrgyzstan.

During his trip, the prime minister held talks in Bishkek with the Kyrgyz head of state Sooronbay Jeenbekov. The two leaders discussed strengthening economic, tourism, scientific and cultural cooperation between the two countries, and signed an important agreement on tourism.

PM Orbán highlighted that this symbolic visit represents a great responsibility but both the emotional and economic foundations of relations between the two states are now solid.

The prime minister said that “Hungary is a country of ten million people that seeks to develop; but at the same time it wishes to preserve its sovereignty – and in this it shows similarities with your people.”

He highlighted that in Europe, Hungarians are looked upon as the most westerly people of the East, and Hungary has always been proud to preserve the traditions of its origins. He added that it is good to live in the West, which he described as a successful part of the world.

“Hungary is also a successful country. But consequences arise from the fact that, after all, we are surrounded by foreign peoples, and we are a nation without relatives. Therefore Hungary is determined to foster its cultural, spiritual and geographical roots. This explains why the Hungarians see their independence and sovereignty as such a sensitive subject,” the prime minister said.

The Kyrgyz head of state said that his country has maintained diplomatic relations with Hungary for twenty-six years, during which time the Hungarians have always proved to be reliable partners. He added that Kyrgyzstan is ready to support Hungary’s aspirations in all international forums.