Hungary’s presidency of the Council of the European Union has been marked by courage and resolve, according to Maurizio Gasparri, leader of the Forza Italia Senate faction. Speaking at a peace concert in Rome on Wednesday evening, Gasparri commended Hungary for its steadfastness in the face of undue prejudice.
‘Hungary is fulfilling its presidency with great seriousness and commitment despite unfounded criticism,’ Gasparri remarked, adding, ‘Hungarian determination has once again been on full display!’
The peace concert, held in honour of Hungary’s EU presidency, aimed to spread a message of hope. Gasparri expressed optimism that such initiatives could inspire a brighter future, even in the face of global uncertainties.
The concert, hosted at the Church of St Ignatius of Loyola near the Pantheon in central Rome, featured the renowned Saint Ephraim Male Choir. Performing in multiple languages—including Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Swahili, Georgian, Spanish, Ukrainian, Italian, and Hungarian—the choir captivated the audience in the packed church.
‘The peace concert in Rome, held in honour of Hungary’s EU presidency, aimed to spread a message of hope’
Hungary’s ambassador, Ádám Zoltán Kovács, opened the event by dedicating it to the innocent victims of wars worldwide, including those in Ukraine and the Middle East. He highlighted that the concert was part of a rich cultural programme accompanying Hungary’s EU presidency.
Kovács noted that the arts play a crucial role in promoting peace and healing wounds, asserting that ‘while culture alone may not stop wars, it can offer hope and ensure that suffering does not have the final word’.
The concert was among several events organized by Hungary in Rome to mark its presidency. On Tuesday, the Hungarian presidency also inaugurated a Herend Porcelain Manufactory exhibition at Italy’s Chamber of Deputies.
Krisztina Lantos, director of the Hungarian Academy in Rome, emphasized that peace requires active commitment and responsibility. Echoing this sentiment, Father Vincenzo d’Adamo, rector of the hosting church, stated that art and reason have always been pivotal in resolving tensions.
Lőrinc Bubnó, conductor of the Saint Ephraim Male Choir, explained that the concert’s programme underscored Hungary’s role as a meeting point for diverse cultures and generations. Through music, he said, the event conveyed Hungary’s deep connections to Europe and the world.
Bubnó added that standing against war means championing creativity over destruction, a sentiment poignantly reflected in the concert’s theme and execution.
As Hungary continues its presidency, the peace concert stands as a powerful symbol of cultural diplomacy, reminding audiences of the enduring power of hope and harmony in turbulent times.
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