INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Hungary and South Africa Strengthening Ties Across Continents Enduring Diplomatic and Cultural Connections
By Kirtan Bhana - TDS
28 October 2024
As Hungary celebrates its 68th National Day, commemorating its struggle for freedom and independence, it also marks a significant milestone in its growing relationship with South Africa. During a celebratory event, Ambassador Attila Horvath of Hungary to South Africa and South Africa’s Minister for Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, eloquently drew on the symbolic imagery of the swallow and the stork—migratory birds whose journeys connect the two nations across continents. This metaphor beautifully reflects the longstanding and multi-dimensional partnership that Hungary and South Africa have cultivated over the decades, and this year’s National Day observance served to spotlight the deep ties between these two nations.
The event’s relevance is heightened by Hungary’s current position as President of the Council of the European Union, lending added significance to Ambassador Horvath’s words on global peace and unity. In a time of international tensions and conflicts, he emphasized the urgency of collective action, saying, “Even now there are terrible wars raging in many parts of the world, and these conflicts can only be resolved by joint effort, by putting aside our differences of opinion and working together for a common goal. All people have the right to live in peace, and we must all help to promote this.” His message reflects Hungary's dedication to global solidarity, aligning closely with South Africa’s own commitment to peace and international cooperation.
Education has been a powerful cornerstone of the South Africa-Hungary relationship, and since 2016, Hungary’s Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship program has made a tremendous impact. Offering 100 full university scholarships annually to South African students, the program has already seen over 200 students graduate from Hungarian universities. These scholarships continue a tradition of support that Hungary extended during South Africa's apartheid era, providing educational opportunities to young South Africans as early as the 1960s and 1970s as part of its solidarity with the anti-apartheid movement. This historic support has paved the way for future generations, and in 2021, the Hungarian Embassy established the Hungarian-South African Alumni Network. Ambassador Horvath spoke to the importance of this network, emphasizing that “the key to the maintenance, expansion, and deepening of our good relations in the future is in the hands of today's young generation.”
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The Stipendium Hungaricum program and the Alumni Network help cultivate not only professional and academic ties but also an enduring affection for Hungary among South African graduates who continue to foster strong cultural and diplomatic bridges between the nations. This educational exchange enriches both countries, promoting mutual understanding and a shared vision for the future.
Minister McKenzie highlighted another avenue through which the two nations connect: sports diplomacy. A prominent supporter of South Africa’s bid to host a Formula 1 Motor Racing event, McKenzie sought Hungary’s support in this endeavour, recognizing Hungary’s extensive experience as an F1 host at the renowned Hungaroring motorsport racetrack. Hungary’s successful long-term presence in the F1 circuit exemplifies the cultural and sporting excellence that McKenzie hopes South Africa can share on a global platform. By hosting an F1 race, South Africa would not only elevate its profile in international sports but also enhance tourism, trade, and intercultural dialogue—outcomes that are essential to fostering global partnerships.
Cultural and sporting diplomacy, as McKenzie reiterated, have long served as avenues for international collaboration and goodwill. These connections go beyond political agreements; they unite people through shared interests and passions, offering a form of “soft power” that strengthens public support for the bilateral relationship. From the World Cup to the Olympic Games, sports diplomacy has been central to South Africa’s international outreach, and the F1 bid is just one example of how these cultural exchanges with Hungary could enhance both nations’ global standing.
South Africa’s economic potential was another highlight of McKenzie’s address. Describing the country as "open for business," he noted South Africa’s highly developed economic infrastructure and diverse market, which together present a unique appeal for foreign investors. With its robust financial system, extensive industrial capacity, and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, South Africa is well-positioned to attract Hungarian investors. Hungary’s current EU presidency further strengthens its capability to advocate for economic partnerships that support sustainable development and investment in South Africa, which could lead to beneficial trade agreements and joint ventures.
The event celebrating Hungary’s National Day brought into focus the depth and breadth of Hungary-South Africa relations across multiple spheres: education, sports, culture, and business. The symbolism of the swallow and stork, referenced by both Ambassador Horvath and Minister McKenzie, beautifully captures the essence of this partnership. Like these migratory birds, the values of unity, mutual respect, and shared purpose connect Hungary and South Africa across continents and through generations.
As Hungary holds the rotating EU presidency and South Africa continues to rise as an economic and cultural powerhouse, both nations are poised to further enhance their relationship. In a world that often feels divided, the Hungary-South Africa partnership serves as an inspiring example of how international solidarity and cultural diplomacy can forge lasting bonds between nations. Through these connections, Hungary and South Africa have built a bridge that continues to grow stronger with each passing year, with a shared vision of peace, prosperity, and cultural richness. - TDS