Sub-Saharan Africa still is an area for many to explore. Hence the name ‘black continent’ because in the 19^th century, the world had little information about its inner parts. H.E. Dr. Eniola Ajayi, the ambassador of Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, sincerely shares her thoughts, feelings, and impressions about her homeland and the cooperation of our peoples.

Madame Ambassador with her spouse, Mr. Adegboyega Oke, at the Nigerian National Day Reception (04-10-2019) (Photo by Ivan Aigner Ivan)

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Green Environment

Your arrival 3 years ago to Budapest on the anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 seems to be a good omen for our bilateral relations. What aspects of Hungary have had a great impact on you ever since?

It was definitely a great day to drive into Budapest with all its beauty and splendour. I have been captivated by its wonderful mix of modern and ancient architecture cascading on the hills and troughs along the natural earth forms ever since. I have been totally blown away by the green environment and the deliberate attempt to keep the atmospheric air as pristine as possible. I sincerely appreciate the attention paid to the environment.

Top 3 Values of Nigeria

Would you please share some facts and add some local spices to paint the picture of the Nigeria you hold in your heart? What three major values come to your mind at first?

Nigeria is a very diverse but very beautiful and interesting country. It has a feel-good atmosphere irrespective of the prevailing circumstances. It is a country that I am proud to call home.
The three major values that come to mind about my country Nigeria and Nigerians are:
Our friendly disposition. We are so welcoming of strangers that people readily find acceptance in our society.
Our hospitality is something that I am very proud of. The social safety net within our country means that you would always have someone to run to. We hardly have people who are homeless. You can visit a friend unannounced and you could join at a meal without any inconvenience.

Our sense of humour means that we still manage to smile even in the face of difficulty and hardship. We are very happy people.

Nigeria is also very rich in arts and culture. The tourism potential is enormous. This is one sector that I sincerely hope we can develop more in spite of our well-endowed natural resources of solid minerals, oil, and gas. I can see how this has contributed to the prosperity of Hungary.

Presenting her credentials to the President of Hungary, Mr. János Áder (01-12-2017) (Photo by KEH/KKM Protokoll)

Tremendous Opportunities

Despite the fact that European countries could be more actively engaged in Africa (like China for example), our two nations have been enjoying growing and vivid relations for the last 56 years. What are the main fields of our partnership and what path lies ahead of us in strengthening this bond?

The main fields of partnerships for our countries are education and agriculture.
The Hungarian Government has been generous in offering 50 scholarship slots via Stipendium Hungaricum and 100 scholarship slots via the Young Christian Scholars Programme, affording Nigerian students the opportunity to study at Hungarian institutions of higher learning annually. We also have several private students. I understand that we have up to 1,000 Nigerian students at the University of Debrecen alone.

The agricultural value chain is so well-developed in Hungary that, I believe, we can borrow a leaf from it. There are projects already being actualized, projects in the pipeline, and some also being proposed. The opportunities are tremendous, especially in the area of reforestation. The future in this area is very bright and I am very optimistic about this partnership. The development of agriculture is a priority for the Nigerian Government.

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button… +++

An Educated Army of Ambassadors

As you pointed out, Hungary is a major hub for young Nigerian people who come in large numbers to study in various educational institutions. In your opinion, what makes our country attractive and what value may this add to our present and future cooperation?

A lot of Nigerians choose Hungarian institutions for their education for several reasons. The first is that they have the benefit of being taught in English, which happens to be our language of instruction from an early age. The second reason is that Hungary has a good standard of education. The other reason is that the academic fees charged in Hungary are competitive, especially compared to the USA or UK.
We hope that this would provide a platform for better understanding between our people for a mutually beneficial relationship. They naturally become ambassadors of Hungary to Nigeria.

After the graduation ceremony of the Medical Faculty of the University of Debrecen (2019) (Photo by Nigerian Embassy)

3 ‘I’s for Cooperation

In terms of results and achievements, what are you really proud of with regard to your current mission?

I am proud of the positive impact that we are making on our Nigerian citizens and within Hungarian society. The three ‘I’s – inclusion for our citizens and host nation, image building, and investment drives for Nigeria – are all being achieved slowly but surely. I am particularly happy because I have a crop of staff who understand the vision of the Mission and are cooperating to actualize them.

It is heartwarming to note that the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Péter Szijjártó has been very receptive and cooperative on issues of mutual benefit to our countries.
I am also happy that our bilateral relations received a boost with two ministerial visits last September. This would make my job a lot easier and open more opportunities in both ways.

Madame Ambassador in the company of Mr. Péter Szijjártó, Hungary's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Photo by KKM Protokoll)

Awakening World

An OECD study pointed out a link between poverty reduction and the development of the female human capital of a country. Taking the very fortunate evolution of gender equality into consideration, what has changed over the course of your career and how would you define your role in moving the issue ahead?

Gender equality is a sensible antidote to development in our world. Making the opinion and gifts of over 50% of the population count is not just required, it is impossible to ignore. The other reason that women must be given their space in the scheme of things is because research has shown that we are actually good managers of time, resources, and humans. Our natural ability to multitask and inborn empathy makes us indispensable at the workplace. I believe the world has finally woken up to this reality.

What I bring onboard on this discussion is, first, to make a difference within my sphere of existence and then to lift my voice on the need for women to be included in every area of our organized society, both formal and informal. Men must willingly concede some spaces for women because it is not in our character to compete assertively or aggressively.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the KÖVETÉS (i.e. Follow) button in the upper right corner!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

The Sun Will Shine Again

To some extent, we all face loss and hardship in our lives. What helped you to cope with the unimaginable tragedy that struck you as a mother? How could the Light break through this immense darkness? What force(s) enabled you to continue with fulfilling your duties as ambassador of your homeland?

Losing my first daughter, Oluwadolapo Ajayi on the day my father was being buried is the worst day of my life. She died from a cranial aneurysm. The whole episode of receiving a call that my daughter had a serious headache, to taking her to the hospital and eventually giving up after a spirited battle by several doctors, lasted just under four hours.
Frankly, I am still in shock. It is very hard to cope with the loss of a daughter who was almost twenty-seven years old and almost perfect. She was bold, beautiful, and brilliant. How does anyone get over that? I have just managed to immerse myself in work because it affords me the distraction that I need. My faith in the Lord Jesus Christ has been the anchor of my soul. I rely on the promise that he would never leave me, nor forsake me. I know that God’s thoughts towards me are good. I just carry on believing that the sun will shine again. It has been tough.

Madame Ambassador with her firstborn daughter, Oluwadolapo Ajayi (Photo: Private archive)

Passion for Education for Everyone

As a researcher for eye care, would you mind to let us get a glimpse behind the scenes? What outside-of-work activities are you exceptionally passionate about as a private person?

I enjoyed working as an Optometrist/Ocular Pathologist since graduation in 1986 till I was appointed a Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in my State in Nigeria in 2010. I am very passionate about education and my life’s goal is to see every Nigerian child educated. I enjoy nature and art. Exploring the countryside and historical places is something I am particularly fond of. My experience with Zsolnay and Herend porcelain is priceless. Visiting both manufactories was very refreshing for me. I also love nearly all genres of music.

Children's Day celebration (May 2019) (Photo by Nigerian Embassy)

The Essence of Greatness

Since I believe in the creating power of speaking out our thoughts and dreams, I wonder what kind of world you would love to leave behind to the next generations…

I would love a world where peace, unity, and justice would reign. A world devoid of prejudice and discrimination. A world where there are consideration and kindness for our fellow human beings. A world that cares about its environment and the future of generations yet unborn. I always want to leave a person or place better than I met it. I believe that the reason God created us with different gifts is to enable us to add value to others. I sincerely believe that greatness does not consist in being great but the ability to make others great.

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about Nigeria, the operation and mission of the Nigerian Embassy? Are you interested in Nigerian-related programs and events? Visit the Official website of the Nigerian Embassy...

A l'exception de l'espace courbe, le chemin le plus court entre deux points est la droite. Sur la scène internationale, les diplomates professionnels et expérimentés sont les plus capables de tracer une droite impeccable. Dans les relations historiquement fluctuantes entre nos pays, l'Ambassadeur actuel, S.E. Pascale Andréani renforce le lien en tant que maître sage et crédible. Cher lecteur, plongez dans le monde riche et passionnant d'une diplomate de carrière...

A la place des Héros (05-09-2018) (Photo : Zsolt Burger)

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Au cœur de l’Europe

Madame l’Ambassadeur, il fait déjà un an que vous êtes arrivée en Hongrie. Quelles étaient/sont vos impressions sur le pays et son peuple ?

Tout d’abord, je dois rappeler que je connaissais déjà ce pays pour deux raisons ; d’abord la musique : quand j’étais collégienne, ma professeur à Paris m’avait invitée à intégrer l’académie Liszt à Budapest, ce qui m’avait conduite à m’intéresser à la Hongrie. In fine j’ai renoncé à ce projet pour ne pas avoir à interrompre ma scolarité en France.

L’autre raison est l’Union européenne : j’ai beaucoup travaillé dans mes fonctions passées sur la préparation de l’élargissement de 2004. J’étais en contact étroit avec les négociateurs hongrois, dont certains occupent aujourd’hui des fonctions importantes. Dès ma prise de fonctions l’année dernière, mes impressions ont été très positives. D’emblée, j’ai eu le sentiment de me retrouver en Hongrie au cœur de l’Europe. De même, j’ai reçu un accueil des plus chaleureux et je suis impressionnée par le professionnalisme des Hongrois dans bien des domaines. Cela permet de mener des projets facilement et de travailler dans de bonnes conditions. J’apprécie aussi particulièrement l’omniprésence des arts et de la culture à Budapest et en particulier de la musique. Enfin, si je suis toujours émerveillée de la splendeur des bâtiments de Budapest, à chaque nouveau déplacement  en dehors de la capitale, je prends la mesure du la richesse du patrimoine de toute la Hongrie.

Discours lors d'un gala (2018) (Photo : csaladbaratvallalat.hu)

Gymnastique mentale logique

Comment aimez-vous la langue hongroise que vous avez commencé à apprendre avant votre arrivée ?

Je continue l’apprentissage du hongrois, qui me passionne toujours autant. Il n’est pas réaliste d’espérer le parler couramment d’ici la fin de ma mission, mais j’apprécie de pouvoir lire les titres de presse et de pouvoir comprendre un minimum mon environnement quotidien. Accéder à une langue, c’est aussi une façon de comprendre la culture et les mentalités de ceux qui la parlent. Par ailleurs j’apprécie beaucoup la gymnastique intellectuelle que requiert l’étude de la grammaire hongroise, très différente de la grammaire des langues indo-européennes mais ô combien logique !

Pour plus d'informations, cliquez sur l'image ci-dessus...

Sentiment d'unité lié aux valeurs

L'année dernière marquait le 230^e anniversaire de la Révolution française. Selon vous, quel est l’état de santé des feuilles de l’arbre dont les racines sont les nobles idéaux de la liberté, de l’égalité et de la fraternité ?

Les feuilles de cet arbre, comme vous dites, ne sont pas près de se faner.  Les débats politiques et les mouvements sociaux que la France a connus récemment  montrent que ces idéaux sont toujours chers aux Français qui au-delà de leurs convictions politiques partagent les mêmes valeurs. C’est tout le sens de l’unité des Français autour des valeurs qui ont fondé notre pays.

+++ Ne manquez pas d'autres interviews et critiques de réception! Cliquez sur le bouton KÖVETÉS … +++

Recherche constante de compromis

Votre curriculum peint l’image d’une personne dévouée à la cause européenne. Qu’est-ce qui est au cœur de votre engagement ? Quelle est votre vision du futur sur l’Europe ?

J’ai  pu me familiariser avec le fonctionnement de l’Europe quand j’étais élève de l’Ecole nationale d’administration puisque j’ai fait un stage à Bruxelles dès ma première année. J’ai ensuite suivi, au cours de ma carrière, plusieurs évolutions clés dans l’approfondissement et l’élargissement de l’Union européenne.  Ce qui m’a d’emblée séduite dans le projet européen, c’est la méthode, la recherche permanente du compromis pour faire avancer la cause européenne. Finalement, c’est l’équilibre à trouver entre défense des intérêts nationaux et nécessité d’aller de l’avant, qui fait avancer l’Europe.

C’est aussi l’idée d’être autour d’une même table avec des représentants de nations différentes mais qui regardent – plus ou moins – dans la même direction. Le projet européen a contribué à nous rapprocher et à montrer que par-delà les différences culturelles, toutes les nations européennes possèdent des valeurs communes, des moments d’histoire partagée et des aspirations à avancer ensemble. J’ajoute que dans le monde d’aujourd’hui, les nations européennes ne peuvent pas peser individuellement : l’UE est nécessaire.

Avec l'ambassadeur allemand, Volkmar Wenzel (Photo: Ambassade de France en Hongrie) 

Relations de confiance

Le Président Macron et le gouvernement français mènent une politique très passionnée et proactive vers l’approfondissement de l’Union européenne. Malgré un large accord sur sa nécessite, il y a de différentes conceptions sur la réalisation parmi certains (groupes d’)États membres. Dans une telle situation, le rôle d’un ambassadeur est encore plus important en servant comme véritable pont entre ces visions. Quelles sont les méthodes de communication et d’argumentation les plus effectives, aussi appliquées par vous, pour gérer les conflits (éventuels) et apaiser les tensions ?

Pour cela, il n’y a pas de secret, il faut se rencontrer, échanger, communiquer pour pouvoir transmettre nos points de vues mais aussi pour pouvoir se comprendre. De cette façon, on s’aperçoit, que souvent, en cas de désaccord, nos positions ne sont pas si éloignées qu’il n’y parait et que l’on peut trouver un terrain d’entente.  Et lorsque cela n’est pas possible, il faut "accepter de ne pas être d'accord", et se concentrer sur nos convergences et coopérations. Il n’y a pas de mal à ne pas être d’accord sur tout, cela n’est pas synonyme de conflit ou de tension. C’est notamment ainsi que s’est réalisée la réconciliation franco-allemande.

Ainsi, il faut cultiver des relations de confiance avec le pays hôte. Et là, je dois dire que mes relations avec mes interlocuteurs hongrois au gouvernement et au Parlement sont excellentes.

Présentation des lettres de créance au président János Áder (05-09-2018) (Photo : Zsolt Burger)

Stations de diversité

L’immense offre culturelle francophone, la coopération éducative, ainsi que la présence significative des entreprises françaises témoignent de la richesse des relations entre nos pays. Quelles sont vos buts pour votre mission en Hongrie ? Veuillez s.v.p. mentionner les résultats dont vous êtes le plus fière.

Je veux rendre toujours plus étroite la coopération entre nos deux pays, partenaires européens qui ne se connaissent pas assez. Nous devons regarder vers l’avenir en approfondissant notre coopération grâce à des actions positives, destinées à valoriser les convergences entre nos deux pays et aussi l’Europe : j’y travaille quotidiennement avec mes contacts hongrois. Et notre histoire commune montre beaucoup de proximités. Ainsi, je publie régulièrement sur mon site internet une chronique (France et Hongrie depuis toujours) mettant en valeur un épisode de l’histoire qui témoigne de la multiplicité des liens entre nos deux pays, dans des domaines parfois insoupçonnés. Je vous invite à y jeter un œil.

Je constate par ailleurs que le climat politique bilatéral s’est considérablement amélioré entre le Président  Macron et  le Premier ministre Orbán. On a vu récemment plusieurs points de convergence, notamment au moment des négociations sur les postes importants de l’UE, mais je peux vous assurer qu’il y en a d’autres, moins médiatisés.

J’attache aussi une grande importance au développement de la francophonie. Je me réjouis ainsi de l’ouverture à la rentrée prochaine d’une nouvelle section bilingue dans une école primaire de Nyíregyháza, grâce aux efforts conjugués des services culturels de l’ambassade de France et des professeurs hongrois.
Et bien sûr, au quotidien, je suis attentive à la situation des entreprises françaises dans le pays.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Aimez-vous l'article ? Aimez et partagez la page.
⛔ Une opinion constructive ? Laissez la couler. Écrivez un commentaire.
❓ Êtes-vous curieux de savoir quels autres articles passionnants et intéressants sont à venir ? Cliquez sur le bouton KÖVETÉS (SUIVRE).
➕ Désirez-vous savoir qui tire les cordes en arrière-plan ? Souhaitez-vous obtenir plus de détails? Rejoignez-moi sur Facebook and Instagram.

Comme moi en cliquant sur www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Politique d'égalité délibérée

Votre carrière est certainement accompagnée par le changement favorable au niveau de la répartition des sexes dans la diplomatie. Quel est votre avis et quelles sont vos expériences en ce qui concerne l’approche plus constructive, plus soucieuse, plus sophistiquée et axée sur la recherche de solutions moins combative, marquée par des énergies féminines ?

En réalité l’évolution que vous mentionnez est très récente et relève d’une prise de conscience qui est devenue de plus en plus vive ces dernières années. En 2017, Emmanuel Macron a fait de l’égalité femmes-hommes une «grande cause» de son quinquennat.
Lorsque je suis entrée dans la diplomatie et pendant la plus grande partie de ma carrière, les femmes étaient très minoritaires dans les postes d’encadrement ou d’ambassadeur. Et tout le monde trouvait cela « normal ».

Puis, peu à peu, sous l’effet des changements sociétaux, le métier de diplomate a cessé d’être vu comme un métier d’homme tandis que des normes en matière de respect de la parité se sont imposées dans la fonction publique. Mon ministère était longtemps resté à la traîne mais depuis 2013, le Quai d’Orsay a fait un effort de féminisation dans les postes de direction ou d’ambassadeurs. La part de femmes ambassadeurs est passée de 12% à 30% en l’espace de 6 ans. Aujourd’hui ces efforts se poursuivent et font quelques mécontents. J’entends le point de vue de ceux qui craignent que cette politique volontariste de promotion des femmes puisse parfois se faire au détriment de certains hommes plus méritants. Je crois toutefois que c’est un mal nécessaire et qu’il faut en passer par là pour faire évoluer les mentalités, l’objectif étant que l’équilibre puisse ensuite se maintenir naturellement. Car, pour rebondir sur la fin de votre question, je crois que la diversité des parcours, des sexes et des origines est une richesse pour le corps diplomatique français, à la fois en termes de représentation mais aussi de production d’idées et d’initiatives.

Reception des boursiers du gouvernement français à la Résidence de France (24-06-2019) (Photo: Ambassade de France en Hongrie)

Passion et activités

Ayant un calendrier serré, comment pouvez-vous échapper les risques du métier ? Quelles sont les activités de loisir qui vous permettent de calmer l’esprit et de recharger vos batteries ?

A vrai dire, je suis passionnée par mon travail et je suis heureuse de m’y consacrer pleinement. Depuis ma prise de fonctions à Budapest, je suis ainsi conduite à intervenir dans des domaines aussi variés que la politique, l’économie ou la culture. Je suis littéralement sous le charme de la Hongrie et j’envisage même d’y passer une partie de mes congés pour découvrir des régions dans lesquelles je ne me suis pas encore rendue dans le cadre professionnel. Je trouve aussi le temps de jouer du piano, lire, apprendre le hongrois ou me promener en ville.

Ambassadeur au vernissage d'une exposition à Szeged, ainsi que dans une école à Budapest et à Nyíregyháza (Photo: Ambassade de France en Hongrie / szeged.hu)

Puissance magique

Si vous aviez le pouvoir de changer une chose dans le monde, que feriez-vous ?

Il y a longtemps que j’ai compris que je n’avais pas ce pouvoir. Et c’est très bien ainsi.

Liens utiles

Souhaitez-vous savoir plus sur la France, le fonctionnement et la mission de l'Ambassade de France en Hongrie Japon en Hongrie ? Êtes-vous intéressé par des programmes et des événements liés à la France? Visitez le site officiel de l'Ambassade de France en Hongrie...

This current year, the air is filled with celebration, change, and hope. The dawn of the new ’Reiwa’ (i.e. beautiful harmony) era associated with the new Japanese emperor, His Majesty Naruhito, the entry into force of the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, a milestone of multilateral economic cooperation, as well as the 150-year anniversary of diplomatic relations give us enough reason to focus on the strong bond with a special country. Let us embark on a thrilling journey with the help of H.E. Kuni Sato, Ambassador of Japan to Hungary…

Her Excellency Ambassador Kuni Sato in her office (Photo: Private archive)

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

Finding a Solution

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of Japan to Hungary, H.E. Kuni Sato, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

Your impressive curriculum spans over a wide range of diplomatic activities (legislation, international agreements, press and PR, WTO, UNESCO, etc.) around the globe. Where does your devotion to public service come from?

It is rooted in my belief in the human abilities to find a solution, which offers a better prospect of life for every participant, nation, or individual.

At the presentation of the logo of the 150^th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Hungary and Japan (Photo: KKM Protokoll)

What have been your impressions on Hungary and the Hungarian people since you presented your credentials to President Áder in late 2017?

A country and people rich in history, traditions, and culture, and known for their will to survive.

Wreath-laying ceremony at Heroes' Square in Budapest (Photo: KKM Protokoll)

Episodes of Bilateral Diplomatic Relations

This year marks the 150^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Hungary, so, there is enough occasion to celebrate. Would you please evaluate their development and current state?

We shall break them down to two main stages: To the period before World War II and to the one that came after.

150 years ago, Japan was about to start its modernization and industrialization. Hungary was to enter into its “golden age”, too. Perhaps due to the physical distance of those days, the relationship was not necessarily intense but definitely amicable. Let me mention just a few episodes.

Episode 1: Tokai Sanshi (Shiba Shiro, 1852-1922) meets Lajos Kossuth (1802-1894) in March 1887
Tokai was a samurai who studied in the western world in the early Meiji period. He wrote and published a series of literature entitled ‘Strange encounters of a Beautiful Woman’. In this journalistic-fictional writing, he passionately wrote about the Hungarian revolution of 1848 and the life of Kossuth, as was told in the book by a daughter of the latter. Tokai’s interest in Kossuth and Europe was such that he actually visited the revolutionary in 1887 in Torino, where he was in political exile. One should note that the two countries then shared the passion for modernization and for survival in the rapidly changing world. There is no written record of what they discussed in the meeting but one could imagine a samurai and a revolutionary talking about the future, of Hungary, of Japan, and of the world over a cup of espresso, a glass of Hungarian wine or Japanese sake.

The official logo of the 150^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Hungary and Japan (Designed by Reiko Toi)

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button… +++

Episode 2: Imaoka Junichiro spends time in Central Cafe in the interwar period
Imaoka was born in 1888, one year after Tokai met Kossuth. He majored in German at university and was introduced in 1914 to a Hungarian ethnographer, Benedek Barathosi Balogh, who came to Japan for a research project. Imaoka helped him as a German interpreter. Thanks to this encounter, Imaoka became interested in Hungary and learned Hungarian. From 1922 to 1931, he lived in Budapest, frequented Central Cafe where artists gathered. In a letter replying to a request for a meeting, he wrote, “I normally can be found at Central Cafe from 1 to 4 p.m.”. He wrote many articles about Japan in Hungarian newspapers and gave lectures. When Japan did not have an embassy in Hungary, he acted as if he was the consul general. On the occasion of the 140^th anniversary of Japan–Hungary diplomatic relations, a plaque was hung at the cafe in memory of Imaoka who loved the cafe and Hungary.

Episode 3: Prince and Princess Takamatsu visit Budapest in January 1931
We move from a cafe to a garden. In 1931, an imperial prince and princess of Takamatsu visited the Varga Márton Horticultural School in Budapest to see a newly created Japanese Garden, completed just in 1928. Recently, I visited the garden, which had been renovated with the goodwill of many people, for its celebration of beautiful cherry blossoms. One of the highlights of Mr. Imaoka’s work back in the interwar period was the preparation for the visit by Prince and Princess Takamatsu.

After World War II, diplomatic relations between our countries were suspended until 1959. It took us another 30 years and the fall of the Iron Curtain dividing Europe to rejoice elevated relations from 1989.

Constructive meeting with state secretary Tamás Menczer (Photo: KKM Protokoll)

From Ikebana to Wadaiko

There are a number of Japanese-themed cultural events throughout this year. What are you especially fond of when it comes to art?

The opening event of the anniversary was an ikebana [traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement – ed.] demonstration at The Hungarian Academy of Sciences, while the final episode of a long series of festive programs is going to be really dynamic wadaiko [Japanese drum – ed.] performance at The Palace of Arts (MÜPA).

As far as music is concerned, one of my favorite artists, Maestro Ken-Ichiro Kobayashi, came back to Budapest to commemorate the 150^th anniversary at MÜPA. He is known as KOBAKEN and as a conductor of passion. Passion is shared mutually: He has been loving Hungary ever since he won the Hungarian Television’s first international conducting competition back in 1974 and Hungary feels the same way about Kobayashi.
The anniversary program started with the national anthems of Japan (Kimigayo) and Hungary (Himnusz), followed by the premiere of a piece composed by Maestro Kobayashi, entitled ‘A Hundred and Fifty Years of Two Homelands’. Then he conducted Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 1, Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, as well as Brahms’ Hungarian Dances No. 1, 4, 5 & 6.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the KÖVETÉS (FOLLOW) button!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at Diplomacy4U!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

A Good Balance

Discipline and respect for traditions are key factors of the Japanese way of life. Though the female role in society has changed in the last century, a significant increase in the number of women in politics and diplomacy would definitely be desirable. However, one more reason to rejoice in having a Lady Ambassador representing your country! As former Ambassador for Women, Human Rights, and Humanitarian Affairs, in which ways can you and your government support this very favorable tendency? What is your agenda on this subject?

One such way is to improve social infrastructure. One example is to shorten the long queues for nursery care services. Another is to give incentives to companies to continue employing women before and after childbirth.

Still another – and perhaps equally important – way is to change the mindset. For example, “ike-men” in Japanese means “nice-looking guys”. The sound would give a positive note. Then came a new phrase, “iku-men”, meaning “child-raising guys”. It is cool to be nice-looking, of course, but it is equally cool for men to be active in raising a child. Such a new role model, inspired by the positive image, would encourage both men and women to be more attentive to families.

A good balance between work and private life is now an increasingly accepted concept and prevailing in our society. Earlier, long hours of work would prevent both men and women from being active in any other part of their lives other than work.

The nature-loving Ambassador surrounded by roses (Photo: Private archive)

Deepening Mutual Understanding

How do you feel about your current mission? What are your goals? What achievements are you really proud of?

One important part of my mission is to deepen the mutual understanding between our two nations. Thanks to the bond we have already been weaving in the past 150 years, it can be performed with the goodwill of many people. I am both grateful for and proud of that.

Ambassador Sato with her Peruvian colleague, H.E. Raul Alfredo Salazar Cosio (Photo: Ivan Aigner)

In your opinion, what are the essential elements of being able to create a healthy balance between a responsible career of a diplomat and a loving home, especially for a woman?

One of the essential elements would be her own health. Then, of course, healthy relations among her colleagues at work and among members of her family. They work and live together, helping one another particularly in difficult times. They depend and rely on one another. Ultimately, they share the joy of accomplishment and the relief of cure.

Healing and Recovery

This year mark also the end of the ‘Heisei’ (i.e. achieving peace) imperial era. The 30-year-long reign of Emperor Akihito not only redefined the monarch’s role by getting closer to his people but also showed unprecedented commitment to the reconciliation with Japan’s neighbors. How would you describe this period?

Natural disasters frequently hit Japan during the Heisei period. Emperor and Empress Akihito visited seriously devastated areas and talked to people, closely hearing stories from one person to another. Their attentiveness helped heal the minds and inspired recovery processes.

Ambassador Sato at Chain Bridge in Budapest (Photo: Private archive)

Preservation and Adjustment

If you had the power to change three things in the world, what would you do?

If the verb of the hypothetical part of the question was “preserve” rather than “change”, I would like to say: If I had the power to preserve three things in the world, I would like to gather forces to preserve UNESCO World Heritages, both tangible and intangible.
Tangible heritages in Hungary include Budapest, including the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue; the Millenary Benedictine Abbey of Pannonhalma and its natural environment; as well as the early Christian necropolis of Pécs (Sopianae). The folk art of the Matyó (embroidery of a traditional community) and the safeguarding of the folk music heritage by the Kodály concept are typical Hungarian examples of intangible heritage.
As for Japan, Kyoto and Nara are examples of tangible, washoku (Japanese cuisine) and washi (Japanese paper) of intangible heritage.

In many perspectives, these are all precious for our daily lives in order to be culturally rich and environmentally healthy. They also assist our mutual understanding. We should be able to preserve them while adjusting ourselves to the challenges of the time.

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about Japan, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Japan in Hungary? Are you interested in Japan-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Japanese Embassy...

What does connect us? What are the challenges ahead? Refreshing summer interview with the Finnish Ambassador to Hungary, H.E. Markku Virri on success, family, trust, cooperation, and basic values...

With György Urkuti, Ambassador of Hungary to Finland and Pertti Torstila, former Ambassador of Finland (June 2019) (Photo by Miika Kangasniemi)

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

The Formula of Success

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Republic of Finland to Hungary, H.E. Markku Virri, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

Your Excellency, would the mathematician in you please explain the formula of success in public service? Where does your passion for international relations derive from? Which multipliers or factors are essential for being authentic?

If I should name the common denominator between mathematics and public service, it would be accuracy. An ambassador is always a mediator between his home country and the country where he is posted to, so in my case Finland and Hungary. Our embassy is in tight connection with our Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, we get their instructions and exchange information. We cooperate daily or even several times a day on different issues.
In my view, it is a basic requirement for performing successfully the ambassador’s task to follow the instructions we get. By doing so, I think, I represent my home country authentically. In order to be authentic, I also consider very important to know Finland and the Finnish society deeply, with both the positive and the negative aspects.

Ambassador Virri with his spouse at Heroes' Square in Budapest after the wreath ceremony (05-09-2018) (Photo by KEH/KKM Protokoll)

Diplomacy and Family

How much is the family life affected by changing your position and moving to another country every couple of years? What are the main challenges?

This is my 6^th diplomatic post during my carrier in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. My first diplomatic posting was in Brazil in the early 1990s. Then we went to the Netherlands, after which we went back to Finland for 5 years. I was posted to London in 2003, followed by Ottawa, Canada. Then back to Finland for 4 years. In 2014, I was appointed Ambassador to Brazil where we stayed for 4 years.

My post here in Hungary started in September 2018. Of course, our family life has always been affected by the movings. I think all diplomats who have families know what I am talking about. For us the biggest change now was that our daughters have not moved with us to Budapest. However, one can think that it belongs to life, they have grown up and we are happy that they manage on their own. They would probably live on their own even if we lived in the same country.

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews. Click the KÖVETÉS button… +++

From Brazil to Budapest

What cultural and social differences did you experience when changing the location from your previous mission, far away in Brazil, back to Europe, actually, to a country that has close ties with Finland?

It always takes a while until you get used to the new environment, the new culture, and the way of thinking but, as I mentioned, this is our 6^th post, so I already have some experience on it. Brazil is of course very different from Hungary: The size of the country, the climate, people’s temperament, just to mention a few issues. It was not easy to leave Brazil as I spent there such a long time and I have quite a few friends there.
A huge advantage in Hungary is that we are closer to Finland, so it is possible to visit our home country much more frequently. One of the things that surprised me here very positively is that so many Hungarians speak Finnish. I continuously come across people who can say at least a few words in my mother tongue. I have to admit that it is flattering. Until now, I have had a lot of work and settling down took its time, too, but I am happy to announce now that, recently, I have had my first Hungarian lesson.

Presenting his credentials to Hungarian President János Áder (05-09-2018) (Photo by KEH/KKM Protokoll)

Then and Now

This is not your first time in Hungary. What childhood memories are being replenished? How much has changed since then from your point of view? What is it like to actually live and work in Budapest?

Yes, in fact my first time was at the age of 14. I cannot recall much of that visit, except for Balaton and the spas in Budapest. After that, I have had a chance to visit Hungary several times. Budapest has always been a beautiful city and interesting both geographically and culturally. Living here is of course different than just visiting, one can gain a deeper insight.
For me, it is very comfortable that we have our residence and the office in the same building. However, whenever I wish so, I find everything one can need in a walking distance. I would like to get to know the countryside, too. So far, I have made official visits to Pécs and Debrecen, but I am planning to travel to other places, as well, especially to the other cities where we have honorary consulates (in Szeged, Veszprém, and Miskolc). In addition, I have privately visited several other places.

Cordial conversation with his Mexican and Swiss colleagues (06-12-2018) (Photo by Enikő Bianka Dancs)

Twin Cities

What are the main fields of cooperation between our two countries?

Of course, political and economic relations between our two countries have always been important. I also want to underline that Finland and Hungary have always had a special relationship based on linguistic relativity. There are strong connections between the two countries on all levels of society. The number of Finnish–Hungarian twin cities is around 60 and practically all bigger Hungarian cities have a Finnish partner city. There are some twin city agreements that are already over 50 years old, but there are also some very new ones, too. I was happy to be informed about the most recent agreement between the first district of Budapest and Savonlinna, subscribed in July 2018.
The big number of twin cities means also that a lot of people have had the chance to visit each other’s countries and get to know each other’s culture. There is a tradition to organise a conference, a 3-day-event for Finnish and Hungarian twin cities every three years and this year it will be held in Hämeenlinna. These conferences often deal with common projects, best practices, and possible fields of cooperation.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the KÖVETÉS (FOLLOW) button!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.diplomacia.info.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Finland’s EU Presidency

What priorities does your agenda for your mission in Hungary comprise?

My goal is to maintain and even strengthen the good relations between our two countries, on a political, economic, cultural, and people-to-people level. An important phase is the second part of this year when Finland is holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. That affects our work also here in Hungary.

With Finnish President Sauli Niinistö and Slovenian President Borut Pahor (23-05-2019) (Photo by Matti Porre / Office of the President of the Republic of Finland)

Cleanliness, Trust, and Equal Opportunities 

Cleanliness, transparency, trust, and quality come into my mind when thinking about Finland. What makes you proud of your homeland?

All the above mentioned, of course. We should mention still one thing: Equality – and the factor behind equality: The Finnish education system. The basic thought behind our education system is that as there are so few of us, we cannot afford to leave anyone behind. Finland’s education system offers all of its citizens equal opportunities for learning, irrespective of their domicile, gender, socio-economic status, or linguistic and cultural background.

Reception at the Finnish Embassy (06-12-2018) (Photo by Enikő Bianka Dancs)

Little Streams Make Great Rivers

The European Union is facing a number of tough issues causing an unfortunate tendency to disintegration that is quite opposite to the very idea of its foundation. What measures can and need to be put in place in order to foster communication and integration between peoples with the same interest of providing lasting peace and cooperation on a continent torn by war and conflict throughout its entire history? How can smaller countries like Finland and Hungary go hand in hand towards unity in diversity?

Finland has been considered many times throughout the history as a bridge builder. We have always been pragmatic and tried to find solutions with our famous sisu [Finnish national concept characterized by bravery, tenacity of purpose, stoic determination, and resilience – Ed.]. Several times, we have been able to offer our experiences and best practices to other countries, too. I would mention just two most recent examples: The Helsinki Summit between President Trump and President Putin in 2018 and the activities of our former president, Mr. Martti Ahtisaari.
The Helsinki Summit was a great signal from superpowers that our country is considered reliable ground for having such high-ranking events. President Ahtisaari is world-famous for his international peace work. He has played a prominent role in solving different long-lasting conflicts. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in 2008. So being small does not mean that you are not heard. Even better if small countries like Finland and Hungary can cooperate.

Negotiation in Slovenia (Photo by Matti Porre / Office of the President of the Republic of Finland)

Relaxing Immersion in History

How do you recharge your inner batteries after an exhausting (series of) day(s)? How do you keep the music playing?

Unfortunately, I do not have much free time but if I have, then I read both fact and fiction. I am very much interested in history and international relations. I would like to deepen my knowledge on Hungarian history, too. By the way, also our embassy building, which has just turned 30 years old, has an interesting history. Before our present building was built, there was an old villa at the same place. It was ruined during World War II, so it could not be restored. Originally, the villa was bought by the Finnish state from a noble family that had had some debts.

Basic Values

What world would you like your daughters and their families to live in? What values make the vision of a thriving future come true, in your opinion?

There are two fundamental values: Security and sustainability. I hope very much that they can live their lives in a secure and clean environment. The values mentioned are highly appreciated in the Finnish society in general, too. Security and fighting against climate change will be also among the priorities during Finland’s EU presidency in the second half of 2019. I think those are values that most people appreciate, quite understandably.

Mr. Ambassador with his wife in the mountains (Photo: Private archive)

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about Spain, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Finland in Hungary? Are you interested in Spain-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Finnish Embassy...

Blood is thicker than water. Knowledge ennobles. Language is the key to the world. Humility is a force that carries us forward. How does a master of diplomacy build bridges, relieve frictions and tensions in international relations? Wherein does the power of the female mind and heart in creating peaceful cooperation lie? The Spanish Ambassador is a savant of ancient secrets, a credible torchbearer in a challenging environment. Let’s drink her words…

The Ambassador's other passion: Writing (Photo: Private archive)

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

Natural-Born Diplomat

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to Hungary, H.E. Anunciada Fernández de Córdova y Alonso-Viguera, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

How much did the fact of you coming from a diplomatic family and living in a number of foreign countries from as long as you can remember shaped your way into diplomacy? Did you have anything else in mind or heart?

I was a very shy little girl as a child, and I had a hard time changing countries, schools, friends… I was always the new one, the outsider of the tribe but, at the same time, I was very curious, and one of my aspirations was to become an explorer. One Christmas, I wrote in my letter to the Three Kings (the ones who in Spain bring presents for the children) that I wanted “explorer binoculars”, perhaps a premonition: My father, a diplomat himself, was touched by this.
I also went through a phase of wanting to become a parachutist or a bullfighter, but I suppose that goes together with the adventurous spirit. Being a child of a diplomat has one advantage: You get to learn languages, which is very useful to become a diplomat and is something you cannot improvise.

In the company of Hungarian Minister of Defense Dr. Tibor Benkő (16.10.2018) (Photo: Private archive)

Authenticity and Pride

Not only your upbringing but also your curriculum provides you with all the tools to be authentic in representing your homeland abroad. What has been your most memorable assignment so far and why?

Travelling with HM The King in some of his official trips, seeing his prestige and how he represents Spain made me feel very proud. Accompanying the corpse of an Ecuadorian victim of a terrorist attack by ETA back to Ecuador for the burial in his homeland was very moving. Receiving the incomparable sculptures from Valladolid Sculpture Museum for an exhibition I organized in the Narodna galerija in Slovenia was thrilling. Attending the Ibero-American Summits, which gather the chiefs of state or prime ministers of all 22 Ibero-American countries, and getting to know all of them, speaking Spanish with all of them, was very interesting. I could enumerate hundreds of memorable and very different moments dealing with social, political, economic, scientific, or cultural matters in my diplomatic career…

Royal Tradition and Responsibility

The royal tradition is deeply rooted in the mind of the Spanish people. Having served at His Majesty The King’s Office, what are the values attached to that very historic image in your opinion?

The King is above the political debate. I think it is good to have a figure that does not compete for elections, someone who represents Spain and its unity. The King, of course, must, as Felipe VI has said on several occasions, “earn” his crown every day and lead a life which is worthy of the respect of the Spanish people.

With former King of Spain Juan Carlos I and her beloved father (1994) (Photo by Dalda)

Attracted by Hungary

Having lived as a child and later served as your country’s ambassador in Slovenia brought you close to Hungary. What are your recollections from back then and your experiences from your current mission on the Hungarian people?

My first trip to Budapest was when I was very young and my father was Ambassador to Prague (then Czechoslovakia), around 1979. Pure communism then, although my impression was that Hungary was not as tough as Czechoslovakia.

Many years later, I travelled on several occasions to Budapest, driving from Ljubljana, while I was serving as Ambassador there. I remember one of those occasions was to attend a splendid exhibition on Cézane at the Szepművészeti Múzeum, another an unforgettably beautiful dinner at the same museum for the opening of a baroque exhibition (I then accompanied a good friend of mine, the director of the Narodna galerija, which had lent some of the paintings), and I also enjoyed strolling around Budapest, visiting the spas, restaurants. One of those visits was on July 02, with my son, and Budapest was that weekend the hottest capital of the world, with Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. This was a surprise for me because I expected Budapest to be cold in the winter, but I never would have thought it was so hot in the summer!

Portrait at the residence (29.10.2018) (Photo by Turizmusonline.hu)

Now, serving as the Ambassador of Spain to Hungary, I have the opportunity of diving deep inside a country I was familiar with because I was responsible for Hungary back at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Spain. I cycle in Pest, I enjoy the fantastic cultural offer, especially the musical offer (I am a fan of Müpa, of the Liszt Academy, and of BMC), I travel around the country, I hike at Normafa, I discover the delicious Hungarian food and wines in restaurants and csárdas… I keep my eyes and my ears wide open to get to know as much as I can from this amazing country and its people. I think if you ask a Spaniard what he or she thinks of Hungarians, he or she will say: Nice people. I share that opinion, and I have also personally discovered something about the Hungarian philosophy: If something is simple, why not complicate it?

+++ Have you lived or ever been to Spain?
Share your experiences and stories in a comment below. +++

Active Engagement

What were your initial goals when presenting your credentials and what have you been able to effectuate in this almost one year of your mission to Budapest?

Our bilateral relations are more intense than I had foreseen, in all fields: Economy, tourism, education, culture… And I am working hard to increase them.

I visit Spanish companies, which are doing very well. There are big Spanish investments in Hungary: Automotive sector, hotels, and others; a total of around 270 companies with 4,500 employees.

The interest in the Spanish language is rocketing and we firmly support that. I visit periodically the bilingual (Spanish-Hungarian) sections in secondary schools around the country and in my meetings with students and teachers, I always stress the fact that Spanish is spoken, as a native language, by 470 million people in the world. I get acquainted with cultural institutions so as to complete an interesting cultural program. I believe culture is the best bridge between the people of two countries.

Presenting her credentials to Hungarian President János Áder (25.06.2018) (Photo by KEH | KKM Protokoll)

Tourism is also soaring: 280,000 Hungarian tourists visited Spain last year, and there are 12 direct destinations, from Budapest or Debrecen, to Spain. I have organized meetings with tour operators, Hungarian businessmen, or directors of cultural institutions in my residence. I try to cover all topics and get acquainted with all the possible actors in our bilateral relations.
Gastronomy and wine are also fields in which we have a lot to do: A Spanish-Hungarian company produces mangalica ham and a prestigious Spanish winery produces wines in Tokaj. Talking about wine, on May 03, there will be an interesting major event on Spanish wines: Fiesta de Vino!

I would like to underline that last December the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, visited Hungary, the first official bilateral visit in 11 years. Conversations, both with Prime Minister Orbán and with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szíjjártó, touched all fields of our bilateral relations, with sincerity and the best will to cooperate.
There are many aspects in which Spain and Hungary can work together. In fact, as a follow-up of that visit, last February, the Director General for EU Affairs came to Budapest and met his Hungarian counterparts. Last February, too, Minister Szíjjártó organized a presentation and a lunch for the Spanish company F. Segura, which has invested 14 million euros in its plant in Szolnok. In the last days, the Spanish company Fluidra has won an important contract for public swimming pools (Aquaticum Nagyerdei strand) in Debrecen.

With Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell at the Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest (17.12.2018) (Photo: Private archive)

Predictable Migration

In view of the turbulences the European Union has been facing for some time, with internal disruptions and the migration crisis in particular (Spain being highly affected), how can our two nations support each other’s agenda for a mutually positive outcome on a bi- and multilateral basis?

During my Minister’s visit last December, migrations were one of the topics on the agenda, both with Prime Minister Orbán and with Minister Szíjjártó. Spain and Hungary have different views, but we also have points in common, and one of them is the will to work with the countries of origin and transit, and to help them in a preventive way so that people will not have to leave their countries in the first place. This is the policy Spain has successfully been implementing since 2006. Looking at the future, enhanced cooperation with third countries (of origin and transit) will contribute to manage migratory flows in a predictable and sustainable way.

On the other hand, Spain has a very long maritime border, which is an external border of the EU. Hungary and Spain strive to have our national efforts of defending that external border recognized. In this realm, both countries consider member states play a fundamental role to be complemented by EU Agencies.

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button… +++

Honesty and Mutual Respect

The minor friction last September, due to a remark by Spain’s foreign minister, resulted in you being summoned by the Hungarian party in order to discuss the xenophobic charges. Without going into classified details, will you please tell us what (diplomatic) solutions you can choose from to relieve unnecessary tension between friends and allies in such an unfortunate situation?

I was summoned because of some declarations of my Minister at a round table in Madrid, and what I underlined with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs was that my Minister had been critical but always respectful. I also stressed the fact that he was coming to Hungary under Minister Szíjjártó’s invitation. Sincerity and respect presided over the conversations that Mr. Borrell had with PM Orbán and Minister Szíjjártó during his visit, and both Hungary and Spain agree that it was a very successful one.
As for my relationship with the Deputy Minister, you can look at the picture in which we are both holding a paella: An image is worth a thousand words.

Holding a giant paella with Levente Magyar, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary (08.01.2019) (Photo: Private archive)

Being a Woman in Diplomacy

Women’s rights being an important issue to you, what are your experiences with serving in the field of diplomacy as a Lady Ambassador? What differences do you notice compared to the era when your father pursued his professional path as a diplomat?

The step forward from my father’s period to now has been enormous. Some days ago, I saw some pictures in the newspaper dating back to March 25, 1957, when the Treaty of Rome, founding the European Community, was signed: There were only men, which would look shocking nowadays. I have found myself being the only woman at some meetings but this is, thankfully, less and less frequent.
In Hungary, where we are 22 ladies out of 85 ambassadors, we have some special occasions in which being a woman opens the door to gathering with Hungarian officials. That is, for example, the case of a very pleasant and interesting lunch that Minister Szíjjártó organizes for Lady Ambassadors.

Meeting of Lady Ambassadors accredited to Hungary at Károlyi Castle in Fehérvárcsurgó (02.10.2018) (Photo by Dávid Pólya-Pető / OGY)

Colorful Personality

Besides your chosen vocation, you are also a renowned, award-winning author of poems and narratives. In which ways does this deeply-rooted passion and artistry assist you in becoming whole and better in your profession? What are the driving factors of you being such a colorful person?

I have a need to express myself and literature is the best way for me to do so. Diplomatic life means travelling, meeting people from different countries, different traditions – many possibilities of inspiration if one knows how to look at things, and a writer, as a painter, has to have her own glance and her own voice. Poetry is very much a question of your own personal view of things, of what things strike your attention. Living in different countries can be hard but it enriches and opens your mind. I speak about this in El vuelo de los días (i.e. The Flight of Days) that I wrote in a period in which I had to travel a lot because of professional reasons and writing was, in fact, a way of keeping the roots with my own self. As for poetry, it unites philosophy and music. It is a way to go beyond words, to squeeze all the juice out of them so as to be able to express what you essentially feel deep down.

Colorful person?! Thank you! Perhaps you say that because I love dancing!

The author at a public reading in Getafe, Spain (06.06.2016) (Photo by Pedro González | Fundación José Hierro)

Profound Ground

What brings you joy as a private person? What do you do to refill your energy level in this demanding position?

Music and nature. As I get older, even more so.
Family, of course… I have three wonderful children and two little granddaughters. And friends… I treasure friendship as a very important value in my life. I am very loyal to friends and my friends have supported me in hard moments and shared and enjoyed with me the good ones.

The Ambassador surrounded by her loving family (Photo: Private archive)

Heartfelt Magic

If you had the power to change one thing in the world, what would it be?

Empowering women. That, for sure, would be the key to a world with less violence and more justice.

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about Spain, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Spain in Hungary? Are you interested in Spain-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Spanish Embassy...

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the KÖVETÉS (FOLLOW) button!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

What depends on a talented, well-trained professional during an international crisis? How can you help create balance and mutually beneficial situations in a chaotic world? How do you manage to keep your cold blood when you burst from the inside watching the suffering of others? The answers are given by a strong and successful woman…

Skiing in the Austrian Alps (Photo by August Ellison)

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

Joyful Successes

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Hungary, H.E. Elisabeth Ellison-Kramer, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

Your impressive professional career speaks for itself. However, what is the source of your strong dedication to public service?

I was born in the sixties in Vienna and grew up in a Europe divided by the iron curtain. Austria played an important role as a neutral country between the two blocks. After my high school exam, I decided that I wanted to become a diplomat to participate in Austria’s important work in this regard. Ever since the world has changed a lot and so has the role of Austrian diplomacy, but I think we still have our place in multilateral, as well as in bi-lateral diplomacy.

In the thirty years that I have had the honor to serve my country, I have worked in very different fields: press, culture, multilateral affairs in the UN and the Council of Europe, negotiating treaties, as well as consular support. A common thread of all these activities has been to foster better understanding between peoples and countries. Every success in these endeavors (sometimes even an ongoing process is a success) has been enjoyable and rewarding for me.

Presenting her credentials to Hungarian President János Áder (06.02.2017) (Photo by KEH)

Common Past, Present and Future

Austria and Hungary had been interlinked for long centuries. After four decades of separation, the “reunification” of the people of Europe brought our two nations closer once more. What have been your experiences in the past two years of your mission? How do you feel in your host country, at the so-called “brothers-in-law”?

I have come to Hungary at a time of dynamic growth of economic exchange, investments, tourism equally distributed on both sides. Many Hungarians work in Austria and it is a popular destination for Hungarians students. In opinion polls by various organizations, Austria finds itself on the top of the ranking of the most popular countries in Hungary.
There is also very much sympathy and interest for Hungary in Austria. Many Austrians have family ties to Hungarians. I have been received with warmth, kindness – well maybe like a “brother-in-law”.

Centuries of common history have forged a strong bond, though like any neighbors, we sometimes have to solve issues that regard both countries. Different points of view can, however, usually be approached in a factual matter, good cooperation on common projects prevails by far. Austria and Hungary were always best off when the worked closely together, and this is still true today.

Lecture about the Austrian EU Presidency at the Ludovika Ambassador's Forum (12.09.2018) (Photo by Dénes Szilágyi | NKE)

+++ Have you lived or ever been to Austria?
Share your experiences and stories in a comment below. +++

Assignment at Neighbors

Do you perceive any major differences compared to your previous assignments?

As this is the first time for me to serve in a neighboring country, there are, of course, a lot of differences to previous postings: common history, Central European culture, cross border cooperation, as well as the widely spread, excellent knowledge of the German language. At the same time, Hungarian culture and, of course, especially the language is quite different, too.

Success Story and Bridge Building

During his visit last summer in Budapest at the summit of the heads of government of the V4 countries and Austria, Chancellor Kurz referred to Austria as a bridge-builder. Will you please share, in this regard, some (personal) success stories you are especially proud of as Austrian Ambassador to Hungary.

Rather than referring to a particular success story, I would like to point out that Austria has, for all the above mentioned reasons, a much better understanding of Hungarian matters than many other countries. For instance, as close neighbors, we have noticed with appreciation the achievements of the Hungarian people over the last decades in developing this country economically and creating a democratic society. Hungary is a success story in many ways and can rightly be proud of it. It is this knowledge and appreciation that contributes to bridge building, as Chancellor Kurz has pointed out in Budapest at the V4 meeting in June.

In the company of Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz (Vienna, 2018) (Photo: Private archive)

Working Together in the Spirit of Multilateralism

What do you see as the greatest challenge(s) of our time? How can we cope with those?

It is a paradox that, even though we are better connected through technology than ever before in this world, we seem to be drifting apart in many ways. There is a lot of frustration and I think that the manifold achievements of multilateralism of the post-war and Post-Cold War era are unfairly overlooked. Certainly, nationalism is no solution as big problems, like the perils of climate change, can only be solved in a concerted manner. We have to find new ways of cooperation, though adapted to the challenges of today, using technical achievements and digitalization to our common benefit.

Working luncheon in the framework of the Austrian EU Presidency, at the Ambassador's residence (21.11.2018) (Photo by Márton Kovács / KKM) 

Life-Saving Negotiation Skills

I cannot help but address the matters of the Austrian physician under trial back in 2011 or the young woman sexually abused in 2014 in Dubai, who both are safe and sound thanks to your intervention during your time as Head of the Department for Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. What are the thoughts that come to your mind, and mostly your feelings, when reminiscing about these extremely sensitive cases?

Supporting Austrian citizens in need abroad, also in legal difficulties through consular support where appropriate, is one of the core responsibilities of a ministry of foreign affairs. The ministry’s or consulate’s role is usually to give advice on how to find legal support and representation.
During six years heading this department, our dedicated team came across various quite difficult situations. We were asked for help in situations of abducted children, forced marriages, criminal arrests… Especially in faraway countries with different cultures and legal systems, the situation can be very difficult and scary for both the citizen concerned and their families. Assisting people in these situations, you get very close to their stories, fears and hopes. I have to admit that I still do think once in a while about one or the other, how they went on with their lives and how they could cope, even when everything had been solved for the moment. It was sometimes not an easy but altogether very rewarding time.

With the Austrian women's national under-18 ice hockey team after the game with the Hungarian team (Photo by Josef Jungmayr / Austrian Embassy)

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button… +++ 

Building Friendships Abroad

The memorial year 2018 was special for Austria in many ways: The commemoration of the end of the First World War with the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the centenary of the founding of the First Republic, as well as its ever-alarming annexation to Nazi Germany 80 years ago that, ultimately, led to Austria’s constitutionally enshrined neutrality. Also, let us not forget about the introduction of universal suffrage 100 years ago. Without that, we probably wouldn’t even be having this conversation, let alone seeing strong women of your caliber in such responsible positions. How can a mother, who also happens to be an excellent diplomat, find her harmony both at home and at work?

Harmony in the family and at the working place is important for everyone. It is especially important for diplomats as they lack the support of the wider family and lifelong friends being abroad and away from home.
I am lucky to work, at the Austrian Embassy in Budapest, with a very dedicated and professional team of colleagues sent from Vienna, as well as locally employed staff. The same is true for the staff working at the Austrian residence.
With regard to my family, this is the first posting during which I am separated from my daughter and son. Both stayed in Vienna to pursue their University studies, I am proud to say, very successfully. We are, however, in regular contact and, fortunately, Vienna is not too far from Budapest.

Forging new friendships is important, too. I enjoy making acquaintances with Hungarians, for instance at work-related meetings during the day, at dinners and events in the evening, I have found many new friends among them.
Relations with my fellow ambassadors are cordial and especially close with the female colleagues, Budapest Lady Ambassadors, who have a very close network.

Meeting of Lady Ambassadors accredited to Hungary at Károlyi Castle in Fehérvárcsurgó (02.10.2018) (Photo by by Dávid Pólya-Pető / OGY)

Soothing Classical Music

Being aware that you are playing the violin, I wonder how you keep connecting to music and what it means in your life? Are there any other passions that enrich and make you whole?

Playing the violin more often is one of my resolutions for the New Year, as I have not had much time to do so in the last years. However, I do listen a lot to classical music and attend concerts whenever I can. (The quality of classical music performances in Budapest is excellent indeed.) Listening to classical music I like, I can find calm during busy times. I also love the outdoors, nature hikes and attending art exhibitions.

Ambassadors in Concert

Music as a universal language can serve as an important tool to build bridges. Do you sometimes play together with some of your fellow ambassador colleagues who are also devoted to an(other) instrument?

I am a bit out of practice and have not started any initiative to play with other colleagues due to lack of time. That would be a very nice initiative though...
Every year in Vienna, there is a concert entitled ‘Ambassadors in Concert’ featuring both domestic and foreign performers playing together. It is amazing how many talented colleagues there are.

George Habsburg and H. E. Elisabeth Ellison-Kramer, Ambassador of Austria to Hungary (Photo by Ivan Aigner)

Achievements of the Austrian EU Presidency

Austria’s motto of the recent Presidency of the Council of the European Union was “A Europe that protects.” What steps have been taken, what results already achieved with regard to this great endeavor?

This motto was chosen in response of many European citizens’ worries. It included the aim to strengthen the European economy, as well as to combat uncontrolled illegal migration.
With regard to that, a migration agreement was reached under the Austrian Presidency to strengthen the Frontex mandate for the protection of external borders and cooperation with third countries.

During the Austrian Presidency, the EU succeeded in once again placing greater focus on the Western Balkans and initiating a new dynamic in the process of rapprochement for all countries with an EU accession perspective.
Good and substantial progress was achieved on the next Multiannual Financial Framework of the EU budget for 2021‑2027. Let me also mention the ‘Europe Beyond Anti‑Semitism and Anti‑Zionism – Securing Jewish Life in Europe’ conference that took place in November in Vienna.
A ‘High‑Level Forum Africa‑Europe’ in December brought together almost 1,000 companies, as well as heads of state or government from both continents to strengthen long‑term partnership. Progress could also be achieved in environment and climate protection.

Working luncheon in the framework of the Austrian EU Presidency, at the Ambassador's residence (21.11.2018) (Photo by Márton Kovács / KKM) 

Personal Wish for 2019

What is your wish for this New Year on both a personal and a professional level? Where is the bridge you help building with your heart and mind leading to…?

For this year, I look forward to contributing to strengthening the ties between both our countries even more through bi-lateral contacts on all levels and through new common projects. Personally, I also look forward to visiting more places in Hungary and learn more about the culture and society.

Related Articles

Check out other related articles. Click either the pictures or the titles highlighted in black below… >>

>> Diplomat and Father at the Service of the King of Norway <<

>> Belgian Ambassador Reveals the Trump Cards of Diplomacy <<

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about India, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Austria in Hungary? Are you interested in Indian-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Austrian Embassy...

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the KÖVETÉS (FOLLOW) button!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Follow us on Facebook!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

What makes us really rich? How do we derive advantage from diversity? What can we learn from the experienced Swiss ambassador? One thing is certain: There are more bridges connecting than rivers separating us. Exclusive Christmas interview…

Photo by Jeshoots.com

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

Neutrality and (Pro)activity

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Hungary, H.E. Peter Burkhard, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

Switzerland is famous for its neutrality. However, you are very passionate about building international bridges. Where is your approach to things with a positive and curious attitude, as well as your eagerness for cooperation rooted? Why did you choose this métier?

Concerning the first aspect, I would like to clarify the following: Neutrality means that a state does not take part in armed conflict. It does not mean neutrality of opinion, and it does not mean abstention from actively participating in shaping the world.
Switzerland is pursuing quite an active foreign policy, and this is enshrined in its constitution. The latter stipulates that the Swiss Confederation, among other things, shall assist in the alleviation of need and poverty in the world and promote respect for human rights and democracy, the peaceful co-existence of peoples, as well as the conservation of natural resources.

As you see, this is not at all in contradiction to my personality and the passions that you ascribe to me, on the very contrary. And yes, my interpretation of my métier goes exactly in this direction. It is true, though, that many of my assignments were not in traditional fields of bilateral diplomacy, and maybe with a greater focus on “moving things forward”. This includes three mandates as Head of Mission of OSCE (Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe) operations, namely in Ukraine, Azerbaijan, and Serbia, and earlier posts in special Task Forces of the Swiss Foreign Ministry. I participated in the work of the Task Force for the Swiss OSCE Chairmanship 1996, and subsequently, I worked for three years as Chief of Staff of the then “Task Force Switzerland – World War II”. The role of the latter was to coordinate all government action concerning claims related to the role of Switzerland, its National Bank and Swiss enterprises, notably banks, during World War II.

Presenting his credentials to Hungarian President János Áder (19.10.2016) (Photo by Dávid Harangozó)

Swiss “Concordance-Grade” Lifestyle

How does the unique federal organization of your country, the very strong integration of the people in the everyday decision-making support the Swiss way of life? What are you especially fond and proud about when thinking of your homeland?

If you search the Internet for “Swiss way of life”, you may find interesting comments about habits of eating, drinking or dressing, about Dos and don’ts in social interactions, or about things like e.g. the high value that we place on public transportation, on healthy lifestyle, and on outdoor activities.
That is obviously not, what you have in mind; you rather refer to political culture. This is a vast subject so I will try to sketch just a few traits of it.

Switzerland has a remarkably nonhierarchical social order, there is a deeply rooted skepticism vis-à-vis political authority (and authority in general), and on the other hand, there is a high level of civic responsibility. There is a dislike of conflict and a desire for what we call “concordance”. The political institutions reflect and correspond to these expectations and attitudes.

Swiss political structures strive to be close to the people and to respond to the wishes of the citizen. So when thinking about Switzerland, it is in first line this bottom-up character of our political system that I could be fond of, and I might feel some pride that Switzerland has been able to maintain the key elements of the Swiss civic society and state since quite some time.
This is far from self-evident, given the profound changes the world has been undergoing, but particularly also in the light of the fact, that for more than a hundred years now, with the exception of the two World War periods, Switzerland always had a share of a foreign population of some 20%. The integrative force of the Swiss society and political system seems to be very high.

Aerial view of Bern, the capital of Switzerland (Photo by Nicolas Jossi)

+++ Have you lived or ever been to Switzerland?
Share your experiences and stories in a comment below. +++

White-Crossed National Identity

What are the advantages and handicaps of multilingualism and/or multiculturalism that constitutes a major pillar of the Swiss society?

The Swiss national identity is not based on language or culture, or, if so, then only on its political culture. Different parts of Switzerland belong to the areas of various great European cultures, which is the basis for a wide range of enriching interactions and exchanges. Although usually, Swiss school children acquire at least some basic knowledge of a second national language and often also of a third foreign language during their compulsory school years, the image of all Swiss being quadrilingual is a myth.

It is true, however, that in international comparison the share of people knowing several languages might be higher in Switzerland than elsewhere. Nevertheless, I would also dare to say that the rhetoric skills of Swiss are usually not particularly high. I do not know really why, but maybe this is somehow related to the fact that our national identity is not based on language, or to the rather egalitarian nature of our society.

The ambassador interviewing director Dieter Fahrer at the 'Sehesnwert' film festival (Photo by Zoltán Kerekes)

Developing Well-Established Relationships

What were/are the main objectives of your mission in Hungary?

It is customary that at the beginning of each year, we define some goals and objectives for our mission in our respective host countries in discussions with our Foreign Ministry in Bern. I am currently thinking about what we might specifically try to achieve in the course of 2019 with regard to our relations with Hungary. Of course, this is to be seen in the framework of a longer-term perspective, it is about building upon the existing fundaments, in particular developing further the good relations namely in the economic but also in the cultural sphere.

At the closing ceremony for the project 'Rehabilitation of the Drinking Water Supply of the City and Region of Balassagyarmat' (07.11.2016)

Collective Experiences

What is your overall impression of Hungarians?

I do not like collective judgments. The diversity between people belonging to a given social group or, in this case, nation is always bigger than the diversity between these groups or nations. However, what I am trying to study and to understand (and I even might endeavor to come to some assessment) is the way how this collective is acting as a collective, how it organizes itself and how it is defining, pursuing and achieving collective goals.

In order to get a deeper understanding of the Hungarian society, I still lack a key instrument of insight, namely the language. I start reading news, I can grasp at least the general thrust, and I am about to start watching movies. A few days ago, I saw the new film ‘Sunset’ (Napszállta). Of course, the English subtitles were of help, but I had the impression that I could follow the dialogues. Coming back to your question about my objectives, achieving a sufficient level of semantic and not only syntactical understanding of the Hungarian language is clearly one of them.

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button in the upper right corner… +++ 

Diplomatic Family Model

A career in foreign service poses a great challenge for a diplomat having a family. What is your experience?

It is a great privilege to serve one’s country as a diplomat, and I could not imagine a more fascinating profession. Moving with your partner or your family from one country to another, changing not only your physical but also your social environment every few years is not a challenge in itself, or you can even see it as an element of the attraction of this way of life. However, combining two professional careers, if one of the two parts of a couple is pursuing a diplomatic career, is very difficult. This was not an issue in old courtly traditions, and diplomacy has its roots in the monarchic state system, but in nowadays world, with life plans of modern men and women, this poses a problem. I am not aware of any Foreign Ministry that has found a solution to it; for sure, we in Switzerland have not.

Official visit of a Swiss parliamentary delegation (Foreign Policy Commission of the National Council) in Budapest (Andrássy University, 26.10.2017)

Christmas Around the World

How do the Christmas preparations look like at the Swiss Embassy that houses not only your office but your residence, too? How and where do you usually spend the holiday season? Are there any special traditions in your family?

My wife and our child are currently staying in Kiev with the parents of my wife, and I will join them for the upcoming holidays. Last year, when we were all together here in Budapest, we had some quite traditional Christmas decorations in the residence, i.e. a Christmas tree with ball ornament etc. However, this year, I must admit, I was not thinking of it.

When I was a child, our family always spent Christmas with my grandparents in a small village in Southern Germany, which left deep memories with me. Later, in student years, I often went skiing over the Christmas/New Year period.
Then followed years when I was in countries with other traditions, the first time for a longer period, when I worked from 1985 until 1986 in Novosibirsk as a scientist. There New Year was a great thing, but Christmas went unnoticed as it was customary in the USRSS back then in socialist times.
In the former Soviet Republics with Christian roots, notably Russia and Ukraine, where I worked as a diplomat in subsequent years, it has become different.
On the other hand, in Azerbaijan or Uzbekistan, where I was heading diplomatic missions later on, religious holidays followed the Islamic tradition.
However, even if a country with Christian traditions, like in the case of Cuba, where I served as Swiss Ambassador some ten years ago, Christmas has quite a different character, if temperatures are tropical. While in Havana, I used to go to the beach for swimming on Christmas Eve.

I must add, though, that throughout the more than 30 years of quasi-nomadic life, I always tried, to the extent that calendars and work schedules permitted, to pay a short visit to my parents in Switzerland, when they still were alive, if not at Christmas then at least around Christmas time.

Photo by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Challenges of Our Time

What is your wish for both Christmas and the New Year? In your opinion, how can we achieve further personal growth and professional progress in 2019?

It may sound pathetic but my biggest wish to you and your readers, to all the people close to me, to my staff, my family and myself, too, is good health.

As regards your second question, I am not sure whether I have a particular legitimacy to provide some advice. There seems to be a general perception that we live in times of fundamental changes. One of the things that seem to be challenged are the achievements of enlightenment. Therefore, instead of giving my own opinion, I would like to respond with the famous quote by Immanuel Kant, which in these times might serve as some kind of guidance: „Enlightenment is man's emergence from his self-incurred immaturity. Immaturity is the inability to use one's own understanding without the guidance of another. This immaturity is self-incurred if its cause is not lack of understanding, but lack of resolution and courage to use it without the guidance of another.”

With German Ambassador Volkmar Wenzel and Austrian Ambassador Elisabeth Ellison-Kramer (Photo by Ivan Aigner)

Related Articles

Check out other related articles. Click either the pictures or the titles highlighted in black below… >>

>> Diplomat and Father at the Service of the King of Norway <<

>> Belgian Ambassador Reveals the Trump Cards of Diplomacy <<

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about India, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Switzerland in Hungary? Are you interested in Indian-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Swiss Embassy...

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the FOLLOW button in the upper right corner!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

What kind of a father will the little boy be, who lost his daddy at the age of 12? How does he raise 4 children while performing foreign service in the name of the King of Norway? Exclusive interview with Norway's ambassador to Hungary...

Photo by Ivan Aigner

+++ Kattints ide a cikk magyar változatának olvasásához! +++

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

Pessimism or Optimism?

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Hungary, H.E. Olav Berstad, who is taking us on a journey through the exciting and responsible world of diplomacy and fatherhood.

You have just started the third year of your mission in Hungary. What have been your experiences both professionally and as a private person?

I have enjoyed every minute of my stay in Hungary. Budapest is one of Europe’s greatest cities. There is always something going on, a festival, concert, exhibition and so on. As an ambassador, I get a lot of free offers and invitations. I live a highly privileged life, meeting so many interesting and knowledgeable people, diplomats, politicians, people of the arts and science and research, business persons, and so on.
We have our embassy and residence on the Buda side. I always find the atmosphere of Pest “exotic”, with all the tourists and colours. I enjoy also the Buda hills a lot, both for jogging, walking, and biking. Indeed also an occasional ski trip when, - if - there is snow in winter.

Professionally, Hungary is a story of its own. I think I will diplomatically formulate it like that. This is my seventh posting abroad and my third as an ambassador since I joined the Norwegian foreign service in 1980. However, here I see a different political philosophy or practice than what I have seen before. Hungary has made a very successful transition since the fall of communism, but now I sense that you are moving back in history, focusing on past losses, pessimism, and fear of the future and perhaps even of neighbours. I think one of the great achievements of Norway is the openness of the society, optimism, and the conviction that challenging issues can be solved or at least effectively and skillfully be managed, but never by us Norwegians in isolation, always together with neighbours, partners and allies.

Photo by Rawpixels

Different Approach to Crisis Management

That’s interesting. Do you find that Hungary is an isolationist country?

No, I don’t. But I think there is an unhealthy emphasis on Hungary as a unique country, the Hungarians as a unique people. We are all unique in one sense or another. We have a strong national pride in Norway, emphasising our history, traditions, freedom and independence. But I feel that for us this is a strong platform for reaching out to others, embracing and welcoming foreign impulses and even people, sharing the burden for instance of managing refugee flows and migration. In Hungary a similarly strong national pride seems to create different responses. I may be wrong, but don’t think so.

+++ Have you lived or ever been to Norway?
Share your experiences and stories in a comment below. +++

Fatherhood Then and Now

Since 1949, Father’s Day (Farsdag) is celebrated on the second Sunday in November in Norway. What is your most memorable holiday memory?

I can’t say that Father’s Day was or is something widely celebrated in Norway. (Probably the owners of gift shops are the strongest supporters). When I grew up in the 1960’s the idea was to be nice to your father, bring him coffee and breakfast in the morning. At school, the day before, we made picture cards with drawings, perhaps drawings of things we associated with our fathers, perhaps a poem, but definitely with good wishes in colour and writing.

I think the concept of fatherhood is different today than when I was a child. Now, many children grow up without a father, because of divorce, long distances, other forms of separation. And in some cases children are born as a result of artificial insemination or sperm or egg donation, without a “father”. The notion of family has become much more complex, to put it this way. The stereotype of the past is father, the worker, breadwinner who returns home tired in the evening after work, having little time for the children before they must go to bed. Luckily, today the role of being a father is much wider, more engaging and participatory in the caring and upbringing of children. In that sense every day is a Father’s Day.

I remember that my father one day bought me a toy which we both saw in the store. He bought it on the spot. It was a kind of elastic band launched rocket. It would unfold a small parachute when falling down back to earth. To me, that was definitely Father’s Day, but it was also My Day and Our Day! I was very happy.

The ambassador with his youngest child, Katrine, and the youngest member of the family, Lajka (Private archive)

Family Nest at the Oslo Fjord

Looking back on that occasion, how did you as a diplomat and a father of four children succeed to manage to balance a responsible and challenging career in foreign affairs with creating a loving environment for your family?

I think I have always tried to give my children – they are now 29, 18, 17 and 7 – some positive memory of myself and of being a family. I want to give them special moments to remember forever, occasions when they feel and recognise that we are together, a family. I don’t believe so much in material gifts. If you use them too frequently, they lose a lot of meaning. So the story about the rocket is not about the thing, but the sharing of a moment, of together finding out how it worked, the first successful “launch”, etc. (We lived right next to the railway. I remember that the rocket landed by parachute on the other side of the track and fences. I rushed over and around by bike to get it as fast as I could).

I think the balancing act you ask about is a difficult one. Some children from diplomat families suffer from frequent moving to new, sometimes challenging or exotic places. They feel that they don’t have any proper “roots”. I hope that I have succeeded in creating a good family environment and a strong sense of “roots” in my children. We have a small house a little south of Oslo, where the children know the neighbours, and the neighbours know us. That is our HOME we love to return to.

Photo by Mischa Bachmann

Advanced Social Security System

Norway has a 100,000+ kilometers of twisting coastline. This natural embroidery is also reflected in every level of the Norwegian way of life. So, no wonder that the bonding of a newborn with both parents is supported by the state through various social benefits. Where is this very family-oriented mindset rooted?

Norway is a beautiful country, clearly. But I have seen enough of the world to realise that every little corner has its own beauty or special character and that people everywhere fundamentally share the same aspirations. However, a refugee from Bosnia told me some years ago that the Norwegians have a unique trait. Norwegians trust their neighbour. And not only that, they also trust the state. I think that a high level of trust within the society is something we share among the Nordic countries. Trust gives us a competitive advantage. Trust, I think, is a result of generations recognising that honest work, willingness to learn and adapt to new conditions, cooperation and seeing also the good in your political opponent, is smart and better for everybody.

Our level of social benefits and inclusion has developed over a long time, accelerating in the 1960-90’s as the state got financially stronger. In 1978 both fathers and mothers got equal right to paternity leave. In the early 1990’s a four week special allocation for fathers (“fathers’ quota”) was introduced. Today both parents share a 49 week long paternity leave at 100 % of the salary, or alternatively 59 weeks at 80 %. 15 weeks are allocated to the father and 15 to the mother. If you don’t use your quota, you lose it.

I have to admit that the principle of a “fathers’ quota” is disputed in Norway. Many feel that it should be up to the parents to decide how to use the total quota, not for the state to kind of dictate that men should be home with the child for at least 15 weeks.

 +++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button in the upper right corner… +++

„Let Us Make the Planet Great Again.”

Ideally, a father paves the way to the healthy future of his children. Therefore, sustainable growth, environmentally friendly energy resources, and strong, reliable international partnerships are issues of utmost importance in our troubled world. In your opinion, how can small but geographically well-located countries like Hungary and Norway effectively exercise their influence in order to ensure stability and peace?

It is not only a father’s responsibility to pave the way as you put it, but also the mother, of course. There is a shared responsibility in all aspects.

Smaller countries can only exercise their influence if they cooperate among themselves and with the larger countries. As a diplomat and as a Norwegian, I find it quite natural that we first and foremost emphasise our national interests. “Making our country great”, or “great again”, is a good thing, if it doesn’t harm anybody else. However, I also like president Macron’s statement “Let us make the planet great again.” I don’t see any automatic contradiction here.

It is possible to make our planet truly great, if we change our mindset slightly and really implement the agreed UN sustainable development goals. I have written for myself four quite personal SDGs: working together in order to 1) eradicate diseases, 2) fight ignorance, 3) defeat poverty, - and 4) combat “nonsense”, - the superstition, traditions, beliefs and fake news which confuse, distract and weaken us.

Photo by Damir Spanic

Scout Law Free of Superstition

If you had the power to change one thing in the world for the better, what would you do?

One thing? I believe in small steps forward. A small, good thing would in my view be to systematically teach the Scout Law in school and everywhere. I was a scout myself and I think the Scout Law is an excellent moral and ethical compass for everybody, irrespective of faith and other things. For me, this would be a bottom-up instrument of change. But I also realise that peaceful revolutions have a role to play. For instance, I regard women’s emancipation and equal rights as a real and positive revolution.

If you ask for a big thing of change, I think we should now systematically try and reduce the role and influence of religions and religious hierarchies. Religion in my view is a type of superstition. It is also an instrument of mind-control and suppression which should have been put into the dustbin of history already a long time ago.

Related Articles

Check out other related articles such as the interview with the Belgian ambassador and the former Indian ambassador. Click either the pictures or the titles highlighted in black below… >>

>> Belgian Ambassador Reveals the Trump Cards of Diplomacy <<

>> Confession of an Ambassador in the Shadow of Terror <<

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about India, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Norway in Hungary? Are you interested in Indian-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Norwegian Embassy and follow them on Facebook...

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the FOLLOW button in the upper right corner!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Did you know that 25% of the ambassadors accredited to Hungary are ladies? One of them uncovers the secret of how to stay on top of the game, laying her cards on the table. Let’s unravel the mystery with this exclusive and candid interview…

Photo by Jack Hamilton

Take a Look Behind the Scenes…

For many, diplomacy is a mysterious, obscure, and boggy area. There is hardly anything to know about the negotiations – dancing on the sharp edge of the sword and striving for mutually beneficial solutions – behind the events playing in front of our eyes, as well as being in the crossfire of various political and economic forces.
However, it is exactly these highly educated, intelligent diplomats and their enthusiastic, devoted staff who, in the midst of the overwhelming deluge of information and fake news, safely build the framework of peaceful international cooperation in the background.

+++ Click here to read the interview in Hungarian +++

An exciting challenge

My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Hungary, H.E. Marie-France André, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

Madam Ambassador, where is your passion for diplomacy rooted? How did you choose this very responsible profession?

By the way, I did not start my professional career in diplomacy but as a barrister. After I graduated from Law School, I was a barrister for 10 years. Though pleading in court was undoubtedly very exciting, I still decided to take the diplomatic exam because I had always been very interested in politics and international affairs.
My passion for travels definitely played a role, as well. The diplomatic career brings the great opportunity to live in different countries and offers the unique privilege to get to know these countries in depth.
It is also one of the rare professions where we have a chance to change positions every 3 or 4 years, not only moving to another country but also switching from bilateral to multilateral postings like NATO, the EU or the UN, which is every time an exciting challenge!

Inauguration of a Belgian hotel in Budapest

Diplomatic Trump Cards

How did you manage to make your way in a métier traditionally dominated by men? What were/are your trump cards?

The trump card for any individual in this career is to work hard, adapt fast to different people and different countries, give up any prejudgements and be able to be “in charge” in all situations. I do not think that this would be different for men or women. That being said, I’m convinced that being a woman in diplomacy is still more complicated for a woman than for a man. Not because it is “traditionally dominated by men” but because, generally speaking, a man will follow his wife abroad and give up his job more reluctantly than the wife of a male diplomat will do. The choice of a posting is than narrower if the distance between the posting and the family home must enable them to commute regularly.

Another consequence of this situation is that a Lady Ambassador, if she is alone in her posting, is also in charge of the organization of the many social sides of the job, such as dinners and receptions, while a male colleague will be able to be helped and supported by his wife for this time-consuming aspect of the function.

So yes, definitely, I’m convinced that this career remains more complicated practically for women than for men but this should not dissuade any woman to embrace this career if they are really attracted by its many positive sides. The fact that in Budapest almost 25% of the ambassadors are ladies is the best evidence of it!

At the award ceremony of the photo contest 'Budapest atmosphère', organized by Madam Ambassador for her fellow ambassadors

+++ Have you lived in or ever been to Belgium?
Share your experiences and stories in a comment below. +++

Castle World Record Holder Belgium

What do you love the most about your country? In your opinion, what are the values that make Belgium special and worth exploring?

Belgium is geographically located in the heart of Europe and has taken through history bits of the culture and attitude from both the countries of the north and the south of Europe. We have three national languages (French, Dutch and German) and many people speak English on top of that.
With many EU institutions and NATO being based in Brussels, the city became very multicultural though the country has not lost its own culture: Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia like to maintain their traditions alive. The Ommegang in Brussels and the many carnivals celebrated in Flanders and Wallonia are some examples of that respect of our traditions.

The country offers a whole range of landscape from the seaside in the west to the forests of hilly Ardennes in the east, without forgetting our beautiful art cities. I would also like to underline that Belgium has the largest number of castles per square meter in the world and that many of them can be visited.
Finally, I cannot help mentionning our gastronomy. Belgian chocolates, beers, speculoos (spieced shortcrust biscuits) and fries are famous around the world. However, there is much more than that: every foreigner who lives or visits Belgium can confirm that love of good food is in the Belgians’ genes.

Reception at the Ambassador's Residence

Europe’s Beating Heart

Which positive outcomes derive from Brussels being the center of the European Union?

Belgium is a founding member state of the EU and since the signing of the first treaty, Brussels hosts the seat of the Commission, of the Council (which also convenes in Luxembourg), and hosts the sessions of the commissions of the European Parliament. With the development of the EU institutions and the successive enlargements (from initially 6 to currently 28 member states), the number of EU citizens working in Brussels has increased, also a lot of new shops and restaurants, representing all member states, opened in the city.
Brussels has really become the “heart of Europe”.

Photo by visit.brussels

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the KÖVETÉS button in the upper right corner… +++

21^st Century Diplomacy

How has the widespread of various social media platforms changed the face of diplomacy in the last couple of years? Will you please give some examples.

Since I arrived in Budapest, I opened and developed a Facebook page for the Embassy. It is a unique instrument to reach out to Belgians and Hungarians interested in the activities of the Embassy. What ambassadors and embassies do is not always very clear to the public beyond some stereotypes, as I note every time I speak to students in high schools or universities.
So, it is important to share what we do. It is also useful to give information about our country, its economy, its culture, about some important events and to promote some less known aspects of Belgium. For example, we will publish shortly a weekly series of articles about the bilateral diplomatic relations between Belgium and Hungary, starting with the wedding of Princess Stephanie, the daughter of our second King, Leopold II, who married Archduke Rodolph, the son of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elizabeth. After she became a widow, she married Count Lonyay de Nagy-Lonya and I am very proud to have part of her furniture and her piano in the residence.

I invite the readers to visit our Facebook page Embassy of Belgium in Budapest and to follow us…

Giving a lecture on Belgium at a university

Discover Hungary beyond Budapest

What place does Hungary have in your heart? What have been your experiences in the almost three years of your mission?

Living in Budapest is a wonderful experience! The city is gorgeous and has a lot to offer in history, art, music, and gastronomy. History is just as much present at every corner of the city as the love of music is. Every time I go to the magnificent MÜPA (Palace of Arts), I’m impressed by the extraordinary quality of the performances. I also never get tired of admiring the marvelous view every time I drive along the Danube.
I am very keen to discover Hungary beyond Budapest even more, though I have visited many places in the countryside, many castles that give a good image of a bygone era of Hungary and, of course, many art cities.

The Ambassador with her loyal bodyguard

Useful Links

Do you want to know more about India, the operation and mission of the Embassy of Belgium in Hungary? Are you interested in Indian-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Belgian Embassy and follow them on Facebook...

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the FOLLOW button in the upper right corner!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Are you wondering how the diplomatic machinery works? ...what happens in the background of champagne-sipping receptions? ...what Nelson Mandela suggested? ...how to work for peace in the shadow of terror? Success stories and tragic losses in the complex web of international relations as told by H.E. Rahul Chhabra, Ambassador of India to Hungary. Exclusive interview...

Photo by Balazs Farkas-Mohi & Twitter / IndiainHungary

+++ Click here to read the interview in Hungarian +++

A 3^rd-Generation Diplomat’s 3 Years in Budapest

Three years is just a blink of an eye in history, though being a huge blessing and offering an exceptional opportunity for a diplomat. My articles include thoughts and stories by authentic personalities (ambassadors, attachés, and other members of the diplomatic corps, as well as well-known and respected persons) who carry out their jobs as a true mission to build and develop international relations in the interests of fruitful cooperation. One of them is the Ambassador of the Republic of India to Hungary, H.E. Rahul Chhabra, who is taking us on a journey through the mysterious and exciting world of diplomacy.

Your impressive curriculum just as your open and friendly personality make you ideal for serving as ambassador. When and how did you become aware of your potential and aspiration for this prestigious area of public service?

I am a third generation civil servant; both my grandfathers worked in the government. Most of my close relatives from my parents’ generation were civil servants. I saw diplomacy working from very close quarters when I was still a student. My father was also a civil servant and I accompanied him to his assignment as Minister (Economic) at the Embassy of India in Tokyo. I was fascinated by how diplomacy works to bring together the people and cultures from different countries. Diplomacy plays myriad roles in building friendly relations, as well as promoting economic and commercial interests.

What comes to your mind and how does your heart beat when thinking of India?

Each one of us misses our homeland; particularly, on important festivals like Diwali and Holi or during family events like marriages and birthdays. However, we cannot let these feelings overcome us; we need to understand and appreciate the culture that we live in. In today’s age of social media, we are able to well connect easily with our relatives; in fact, several of us even conduct common ceremonies on special occasions.

India is an ancient civilization and we believe in ‘Vasudaiv Kutumbkam’, i.e. the whole world is a family. India is the birthplace of four religions, i.e. Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Our culture flourished despite invasions and today the entire world has started recognizing our contribution, including in the forms of Yoga and Ayurveda. People from far off lands come to India to learn our classical dances and music.

Ambassador presenting his credentials to H.E. János Áder, President of Hungary (Photo by Balazs Farkas-Mohi)

Nelson Mandela’s Advice to the Young Diplomat

The Independence Day of August 15 brought a great deal of change to the subcontinent. In your opinion, what is the ultimate and everlasting message of the most peaceful freedom fighter ever, Mahatma Gandhi? Has he inspired you personally?

As a young diplomat posted in Senegal, I was particularly honoured to have been singled out in a room full of people by Nelson Mandela; he asked me never to forget that I represent a country that gave the world Mahatma Gandhi. Subsequently, while serving in the United States, it was heart-warming to see miniature busts of Gandhiji on the mantlepieces of several Senators and Congressmen. I was also able to organize, for the first time ever, a ceremonial alighting for the President of India at Pietermaritzburg; the town in South Africa, made famous due to the fact that Gandhiji was forcibly evicted from a train there.

Our freedom struggle led by the Father of our Nation, Mahátma Gandhi was fought in a peaceful manner. It was a great message for the entire world as it was achieved largely through non-violent means. This inspired many other countries to follow the path of non-violence to get freedom from the Empire.

It is interesting you ask this question since we are beginning in a few weeks celebrations of the 150th birth anniversary of Gandhiji. Mahatma Gandhi’s message of peace and non-violence is more relevant today than ever. I am personally inspired by his message of simple living. It includes modest lifestyle and moderate food habits. If we follow some of his principles, we can live a healthy life.

Photo by Ishant Mishra

India in the Arctic

Looking back at your career so far, what achievements are you the proudest of?

I have always followed the principle that you give your best effort to whatever job you get rather than hoping and trying for the best job possible.
While working in the Indian Foreign Service, I have been associated with many important decisions and processes. I have served in the capitals of 3 P-5 countries at very crucial junctures of bilateral and multilateral relations. It was very satisfying to be a part of the core team taking important decisions.

I helped promote FDI flows into India during the initial stages of the opening of the Indian economy in the early 1990s; was part of the government delegation to the World Economic Forum in Davos. I helped channelize commitments of billions of dollars of FII inflows from the Norwegian Pension Fund. I helped focus India’s foreign policy towards the Arctic. I was also a member of the team which negotiated the India–US civil nuclear deal in 2005-2006.

+++ Have you lived or ever been to India?
Share your experiences and stories in a comment below. +++

The Indian Who Prevented the Execution of Árpád Göncz

It is the third year of your mission in Hungary. What values has this experience given to you as a person (e.g. friendship, knowledge, inspiration, growth, realization, exploration, fun, new hobby etc.)?

I have gained tremendous experience in all fields since I approach every task with an open mind. Our role as a diplomat is to understand the local conditions and convey recommendations to our government. Experiencing the thermal waters made me realize that Hungarians were open to alternative therapies; hence, our focus on Ayurveda and Yoga.

India and Hungary have traditionally shared very friendly relations. If I could remind you of the role played by the Indian Embassy in the 1956 revolution. People still fondly remember how President Árpád Göncz was helped by the Indian Mission. Over the years, Hungary has supported India’s membership bid to various multilateral organizations and I think there is a huge potential for growth in our economic and cultural relations.

Photo by Discovermyindia.eu

10000+ Hungarian Employees of Indian Companies

You have been being engaged in economics for quite some time (from your education to the conception and organization of the India–Central Europe Business Forum). In your opinion, in what ways can business activities and relations contribute to a better understanding and acceptance of one another on an international level?

In the last couple of years, Indian investment in Hungary has increased manifold. Currently, employment is being provided to over 10,000 Hungarians by Indian companies. Apollo Tyres, TCS, Wipro are the big Indian names in Hungary and recently the foundation stone for SMR's fourth factory has also been laid. It is my strong belief that commercial ties are very important in order to enhance bilateral relations.

With the growth in economic relations, there has also been an increase in people-to-people contacts. There has been a huge increase in the number of Indian tourists visiting Hungary. The Indian Government has also introduced the e-tourist visa for Hungarian citizens interested to visit India. Now, one does not necessarily have to come to the Embassy for a visa. It can be obtained online. All these efforts are being made to promote our economic and cultural ties further. It is these interconnections that will lead to a better understanding and acceptance of one another that is so critical in today’s world.

Signing an MOU in the Parliament on the occasion of the official visit of H.E. Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India (Photo by Balazs Farkas-Mohi)

+++ Do not miss other interviews and reception reviews! Click the FOLLOW button in the upper right corner… +++

Yoga and Ayurveda for Health

The widespread use of Indian methods for a healthier conduct of life (yoga, Ayurveda in particular) in recent years has opened many doors and minds. I know that the Indian Embassy is organizing several events, offering various programs throughout the year to promote the many benefits of these ancient Indian teachings. How frequently do you resort to these roots for personal replenishment? What other tools serve you in recharging your inner batteries in order to always be as fit as a fiddle for this most demanding and responsible job?

Yoga and Ayurveda have now been accepted world over as the means to a healthier life. The popularity of Yoga can be measured by the fact that the UN resolution to adopt June 21 as International Day of Yoga was co-sponsored by 177 countries. In Hungary itself, there are more than 125 schools/studios of Yoga imparting different forms of Yoga.

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic healing system. It lays emphasis on the comprehensive health of a person by focusing on prevention rather than cure. In Hungary, we have an Ayurveda Chair at the University of Debrecen. In addition to teaching, the current chair, Dr. Asmita Wele, a leading practitioner, is engaged in curcumin research. The Swiss Government has accepted Ayurveda as a system of complementary medicine. I would also like to warn the public to beware of quacks who pretend to be Yoga and Ayurveda experts but don't really have authentic knowledge.

We have been conducting regular Yoga classes in our Embassy. We have a free weekly Ayurveda consultation clinic every Thursday.

In my personal life, I regularly do Yoga to de-stress myself and complement it with swimming. Ayurvedic norms are routinely followed in our diet. This helps prevent several medical issues.

Somewhere Halfway Between Terrorist Attacks and Peaceful Cooperation

What would you suggest to some youngsters dreaming of a diplomatic career? What are the ups and downs? What opportunities has this profession to offer?

Diplomatic service has its own pros and cons. We are often required to work under challenging circumstances. I still can't forget how we lost many of our colleagues, including one of our very promising officers, in a terror attack on our Embassy in Afghanistan. I had been exchanging emails with him until a few days before the tragic incident; but not all is so despairing.

Diplomacy works silently behind all international agreements and peace deals, whether it is a climate change agreement or the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces (India is the largest contributor), everything is negotiated through diplomatic channels. Diplomacy plays the most important role in building and nurturing international relations.

Behind all the glitter of sipping champagne and ribbon cutting, our work never stops! We work to establish peace when war is on and to promote the ties when there is peace.

Photo from Twitter / IndiainHungary

Useful Link

Do you want to know more about India, the operation and mission of the Indian Embassy in Hungary? Are you interested in Indian-related programs and events? Visit the Official Website of the Indian Embassy and follow them on Twitter...

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

✅ Do you like the article? Like and share it!
⛔ Any constructive opinion? Let it flow out! Write a comment!
❓ Are you curious what other exciting and interesting articles are coming up next? Definitely click on the FOLLOW button in the upper right corner!
➕ Are you wondering who pulls the strings in the background? Are you keen on getting more details? Join me on Facebook and Instagram!

Like me on clicking at www.facebook.com/diplomaciamindenkinek!

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦