“The aim is to strengthen and give meaning to the relations between Hungary and Armenia,” said President Katalin Novák on Tuesday after her meeting with President Vahagn Khachaturyan of Armenia.

Diplomatic relations between Hungary and Armenia were resumed at the end of 2022, marking the second visit of an Armenian president to Hungary since the 1989 regime change, while President Khachaturyan made his first official visit to the capital.

The strengthening of bilateral relations covers various areas, including higher education, science, technology, and culture.

During a joint press conference, the two heads of state emphasized Hungary’s support for Armenia in strengthening European relations and visa liberalization, particularly as Armenia prepares to assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union. Highlighting the common Christian heritage of the two nations,

through initiatives like the Hungary Helps Program, that has provided HUF 40 million (EUR 103.4k)  in support to Armenian families. Additionally, she mentioned the ongoing support provided to the Armenian minority in Hungary, totaling HUF 2 billion (EUR 5.1M) between 2011 and 2023.

President Vahagn Khachaturyan described the visit as historic, expressing Armenia’s readiness to revitalize its relations with Hungary. He noted the historical ties between the two peoples, dating back to Soviet times. Regarding opportunities for cooperation,

emphasizing the importance of accurate assessments by business circles in both countries.

President Vahagn Khachaturyan also mentioned Armenia’s interest in joining a European Union power line project in the South Caucasus, seeking Hungary’s support due to its unique status within the EU. He emphasized Armenia’s ability to export agricultural products to Europe while being a member of the Eurasian Economic Union.

Both presidents agreed on the importance of peace, expressing their commitment to promoting peace talks and long-term stability in various conflict regions, including Ukraine and the Middle East.

drawing parallels with Armenia’s own experience in its long lasting conflict with Azerbaijan.

During the visit, the heads of states delivered speeches at the Department of Armenian Studies of Pázmány Péter Catholic University. As a highlight of the program, Mr. Rafik Srbuhi Gevorkyan, Rector of the Armenian State Pedagogical University, presented an honorary doctorate to Bálint Kovács, Head of the Department of Armenology at Pázmány Péter Catholic University.