President of Hungary Katalin Novák met with representatives of Hungarian diaspora organisations in Zurich on Wednesday, 7 June. During the event, Katalin Novák stated that the relationship between Switzerland and Hungary has a long history and is very close, but the Hungarian administration aims to make it even closer.
She emphasised that there are two reasons why Switzerland is highly respected: its system of direct democracy and its ability to preserve and strengthen sovereignty and independence. Katalin Novák expressed gratitude for the understanding and support of the Swiss people towards Hungarians and for the work of the diaspora organisations. She thanked everyone for supporting the work of those who assist and unite Hungarians living in Switzerland, as well as coordinate the operations of these organisations.
She recalled childhood memories related to Switzerland, highlighting that Hungarians who have settled in Switzerland have also contributed to life and the economy there. Among others, representatives from the Hungarian House Foundation, the Basel Hungarian Cultural Meeting, the Bern Hungarian Association, and the Zurich Hungarian Association participated in the event.
László Szennyessy, President of the Hungarian House Foundation in Switzerland, highlighted that Katalin Novák is the first president who personally shows interest in the operations of Hungarian organisations in Switzerland and the situation of the Hungarian community there. He mentioned that the Zurich Hungarian organisation was established in 1864 and will celebrate its 160th anniversary next year. He added that there is a vibrant Hungarian community in Switzerland, thanks to both native Swiss citizens and Hungarians.
During her official visit, the Hungarian President also met with Prime Minister Daniel Risch in Liechtenstein, followed by
a conversation with Crown Prince Alois and his spouse about traditional family values and the importance of family protection.
She also visited Hilti Corporation, where she was received by Chairman and CEO Jahongir Doongaji. The company spokesperson noted that they are planning to expand their factory in Kecskemét next year.
On Thursday, 8 June Katalin Novák will deliver a speech titled ‘Hungary’s Role in Europe’ at the Swiss Economic Forum. She will also have meetings with Alain Berset, the President of the Swiss Confederation, Martin Candinas, the President of the Swiss National Council, and Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee.
The SEF is Switzerland’s leading economic conference, which will be held for the 25th time on 8–9 June. One of the keynote speakers at the jubilee meeting with the motto ‘Let’s Make It Happen!’ will be Katalin Novák.
Every year, the event brings together over 1,000 leaders from the business, science, politics, and media sectors in Interlaken. Among this year’s forum speakers will be Alain Berset, the President of the Swiss Confederation; Garri Kasparov, the international chess grandmaster; Thomas Jordan, an economist and central banker, who is the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Swiss National Bank; Ian Matthew Morris, a historian, archaeologist, and professor at Stanford University, and Lisa Eckhart, a performer.
