Serbia and Hungary have opened a joint consular office in Thessaloniki, Greece, strengthening ties between the two countries. Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić and Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó attended the ceremony, underscoring their growing partnership and regional integration efforts.
This move aligns with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s vision for closer collaboration. Minister Đurić highlighted the importance of partnerships in addressing global challenges, calling the office a symbol of evolving trust and unity.
Minister Szijjártó emphasized Thessaloniki’s strategic role as a cultural and trade hub. He announced plans for a high-speed railway linking Budapest and Belgrade to boost regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
In addition to diplomacy, discussions are ongoing for Hungarian company MOL to acquire the Russian stake in Naftna Industrija Srbije (NIS). Szijjártó expressed optimism about benefits for both countries, including improved oil market management in Central Europe.
The Thessaloniki office is the fifth joint diplomatic effort by Hungary and Serbia, following similar projects in Chile, Congo, Zambia, and Malta. This reflects their commitment to strengthening ties and providing tangible benefits for citizens.
In today’s geopolitical climate, this partnership serves as a model of regional cooperation based on mutual respect. The consular office will facilitate cultural and economic exchanges between the nations.
The office is also strategically significant for Hungary due to the large number of Hungarian tourists visiting Greece annually. It aims to provide essential services to these travelers.
Shared economic interests further bolster Serbia-Hungary collaboration. The high-speed railway project underscores their commitment to regional stability and integration into the EU’s transport network, promising enhanced trade and mobility.
Overall, opening this joint consular office marks a concrete step forward in bilateral relations.
