Hungary announces 400 scholarships for Pakistani students

Hungary has announced 400 fully funded scholarships for Pakistani students, reinforcing educational ties as both nations move to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.

The announcement was made during a joint press conference between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, and Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, held in Islamabad on Wednesday.

During the press briefing, the two leaders marked the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Hungary and signed several memoranda of understanding (MOUs).

The agreements focus on enhancing collaboration in trade, industry, and cultural exchange, as well as reaffirming both nations’ commitment to regional peace.

Ishaq Dar welcomed Szijjártó on his second official visit to Pakistan, calling Hungary a positive and reliable partner. He highlighted Hungary’s role in supporting Pakistan’s industrial growth, particularly through the Mughal Group, which has helped develop the country’s manufacturing sector.

The ministers also discussed regional security challenges, particularly those posed by instability in neighbouring Afghanistan.

Dar briefed his counterpart on the cross-border security concerns faced by Pakistan and the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address them. Additionally, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was raised during the talks, with both countries expressing the need for peace in the Middle East.

In his remarks, Szijjártó said Hungary recognises Pakistan’s efforts to maintain stability in a volatile region and expressed solidarity with Islamabad’s peace initiatives. He noted that Hungary, like Pakistan, hopes for a resolution to the war in Ukraine and peace across the wider region.

Addressing the scholarship initiative, Szijjártó confirmed that around 1,700 applications from Pakistani students had already been received for the 400 slots.

He emphasised Hungary’s interest in further promoting people-to-people contacts through academic exchanges, cultural collaboration, and professional partnerships.

The visit and agreements signal a new chapter in Pakistan-Hungary relations, underlining shared priorities in education, trade, diplomacy, and regional security.