Trade between Kazakhstan and Hungary is growing steadily. In the first quarter of 2023 alone, Kazakhstan exported 38% more goods to the European state. Hungary, in turn, has increased its supplies to Kazakhstan by a quarter over the same period. Hungarian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Otto Ivan Rona said this in an exclusive interview with Jibek Joly TV channel.
According to him, 32 Hungarian and about 40 Kazakh-Hungarian joint ventures in the agriculture, trade, construction, and mining sectors are operating in Kazakhstan to date.
“Hungary supplies the country with chemicals, high-quality seeds, electronic devices, as well as laboratory instruments in large quantities. In 2022, Hungary’s exports amounted to $196 million, while imports reached $232 million, with Kazakh oil making up its largest share,” Rona said.
In addition to strengthening trade and economic relations, Kazakhstan and Hungary are also interested in expanding cultural and humanitarian cooperation, which is feasible due to the close historical ties between the states, according to the ambassador. Additionally, the parties are developing partnerships in science and education. For example, Kazakhstan provides 250 grants each year for students to receive free education in Hungary through special scholarship programs.
“These programs are gaining popularity. This year, 1,471 students applied for 250 grants. I have just received a list of 178 applicants who received scholarships. Approximately 1,000-1,200 Kazakh students are currently enrolled in universities in Hungary, including undergraduate, master’s, and future PhD students,” the ambassador said.
In 2022, Kazakhstan and Hungary celebrated 30 years of diplomatic relations, during which the European country has become an important partner of Kazakhstan in the European Union. To date, the two states have concluded a number of intergovernmental agreements aimed at deepening trade and economic cooperation, as well as promoting and protecting investments.
