Our duty is to collectively represent the interests of our country
It is our duty to collectively represent the interests of our nation and our homeland, regardless of our outlook on the world or the particular region of the country or the Hungarian-inhabited corner of the Carpathian Basin we come from - stated President Novák in Brussels on Friday.
At the Embassy in charge of Hungary's relations with the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Katalin Novák met with members of the Hungarian diaspora having arrived there after 2004. In her speech at the event, she stressed that there are difficulties and challenges associated with being a Hungarian abroad, where, in her words, one does not always recognise the steps needed to preserve the Hungarian language, culture and identity.
“The preservation of Hungarian identity doesn't happen on its own. I wish that you never let go of the value and treasure embedded in your Hungarian heritage.” – the Head of State stressed.
According to the President, the main purpose of her three-day visit to Brussels, which began on Wednesday, was to strengthen the bilateral relations between Hungary and Belgium, " in a way worthy of the 100-year-long history” of the diplomatic ties between the two countries. It is also fitting in the present day, partly because of the strong economic connections and partly because of the people living in both countries—Belgians in Hungary and Hungarians in Belgium. This also includes the cultural ties that have been strong in the past and continue to be stronger and richer in the present as well.
"My other aim with this bilateral visit was to not just dwell on the past, not just celebrate the glory of the past 100 years, but to also direct attention to the future, the possibilities that still exist in our relationship" - stated the President, adding the importance for her to have the opportunity to attend an audience with King Philippe of Belgium, meet with the Belgian Prime Minister, the Speakers of Parliament, as well as influential Belgian politicians and public figures “who contribute to the strengthening of Hungarian-Belgian relations."
The Head of State met with the leaders of the Hungarian Orthodox Jewish community in Antwerp, including those with roots in Transcarpathia and Transylvania.
On the final day of her visit to Brussels, Katalin Novák presented awards to executives of major Belgian investors present in Hungary. Later, she visited the Belgian Royal Horse Guards, where at least ten horses of Nonius and Gidran breeds originating from Hungary are kept.