Bećirović in Budapest meets with Magyar: The beginning of a new era in relations between BiH and Hungary

The Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Denis Bećirović, met today in Budapest with the Prime Minister of Hungary, Peter Magyar, with whom he discussed relations between the two countries, economic and security cooperation, as well as European and Euro-Atlantic integration.

Bećirović proposed that the two countries jointly initiate the re-establishment of a direct flight route between Sarajevo and Budapest, as well as the restoration of a direct passenger rail connection between the two capitals, according to a statement from the BiH Presidency.

He emphasized that better transport connectivity would contribute to the development of trade, tourism, and investment.

Bećirović also expressed his belief that the meeting represents the beginning of a new stage in relations between BiH and Hungary, assessing that the policy of the previous Hungarian government undermined mutual trust, and that political changes in Hungary are an opportunity for a new chapter based on equal cooperation, European values, and common interests.

The government of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban had excellent relations only with the authorities of Republika Srpska.

He welcomed the support of the new Hungarian government for the EU enlargement policy, emphasizing that full membership in the EU and NATO are strategic foreign policy goals of BiH.

The Chairman of the BiH Presidency also pointed out the possibilities for increasing Hungarian investments in BiH, especially in energy, industrial production, information technology, the food industry, and tourism.

He also proposed stronger cooperation in the field of renewable energy sources, modernization of the electric power infrastructure, and energy security, the statement said.

The Hungarian Prime Minister, it is added, emphasized the commitment of the new Hungarian government to developing strong relations with BiH on the principles of mutual respect, equality, and partnership.

He stressed that Hungary respects the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of BiH and supports the stability of the Western Balkans, and also expressed interest in strengthening economic ties and investments.