These ties gained momentum in the 1950s, when Egypt imported trains and agricultural equipment from Hungary, and Egyptian students studied in Hungarian universities.
With Hungary's accession to the European Union, Budapest has demonstrated a significant understanding of Egypt's developments and challenges.
In recent years, political relations have seen remarkable progress, reflecting the high regard expressed by senior Hungarian officials for Egypt's role in promoting peace and stability in its region and as a force of moderation within its Arab, Islamic, African, and Mediterranean surroundings.
Ahram Online interviewed Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó during his recent visit to Cairo. The topics discussed were bilateral relations, potential areas of industrial and commercial cooperation with Hungary, and pressing issues on the European and regional agendas.
Ahram Online: How do you assess the current state of bilateral relations?
FM Szijjártó: We attach great importance to the relationship between our two countries.
I recently consulted with the former minister of foreign affairs Dr. Sameh Shoukry, who proposed elevating this relationship to a strategic partnership. This reflects the significance we place on enhancing our ties.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán highly regards President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi. Based on their excellent personal rapport, we are building strategic cooperation between the two nations.
Egypt is our top economic partner in Africa, and we highly value its role in stabilizing North Africa. Egypt's responsible policies protect Europe and reduce security pressures on our continent.
AO: What opportunities exist for developing bilateral trade, and what joint projects are underway?
FM Szijjártó: We are implementing the most significant economic and industrial project in our two countries' history, delivering 1,350 train carriages to Egypt's railways.
Production and delivery are ongoing. 1,015 carriages have already been delivered, leaving 335 to be completed by August 2026. This project will modernize Egypt's railway fleet and open new horizons for industrial cooperation.
AO: Was this the main topic of your meeting with the transport minister?
FM Szijjártó: Yes. My discussions with Minister Kamel El-Wazir focused on the project's progress and delivery terms.
We expect this successful initiative to lead to new industrial cooperation.
AO: How can Hungarian companies be encouraged to invest in Egypt, particularly in special economic zones?
FM Szijjártó: Hungarian companies seek stability, which Egypt offers politically and economically.
We promote investment opportunities in Egypt's free economic zones, especially around the Suez Canal, which is vital for global trade.
I also discussed localizing the production of some Hungarian companies in Egypt to increase manufacturing capacity.
AO: Illegal migration is a major challenge for Europe today. How can the two countries cooperate in this field?
FM Szijjártó: This is a critical issue for Hungary. For the past decade, we have faced immense pressure from migrants.
Unfortunately, Brussels' migration policy has been counterproductive, encouraging people to deal with smugglers.
Hungary adopts a strict policy against irregular migration, allowing only legal entry.
Egypt plays a crucial role because no irregular migration wave has crossed its borders. This responsible policy helps reduce migration pressures on Europe.
We urge the European Union to disburse financial support to Egypt so that this effort can continue quickly.
AO: In light of the ceasefire in Gaza, how does your country assess the current political and humanitarian situation?
FM Szijjártó: We are deeply concerned about the security situation in the Middle East, as it significantly impacts European security.
A humanitarian crisis in the region could lead to new migration waves affecting Europe.
We appreciate the moderate behaviour of countries like Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, which helps maintain hope for peace and stability.
AO: What about the two-state solution?
FM Szijjártó: We were strong supporters of the Abraham Accords, which brought Israel closer to many Arab states. We hope this vision will be revived.
We also appreciate Egypt's constructive role in resolving regional conflicts, without which agreements like the one in Gaza would not have been possible.
The two-state solution requires extensive discussion and consensus between the parties involved, which is currently unavailable.
Therefore, we focus on advancing peaceful conditions in the region.
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