Hungary is a country rich in sporting talent, which is also evident within the Hungarian Defence Forces: their parachute team is among the world’s elite, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Defence stated on Wednesday in Szolnok.
At the opening ceremony of the 46th International Military Sports Council (CISM) World Military Parachuting Championship, Tamás Vargha expressed that the Hungarian government is committed to supporting sports. He added that in a world burdened with difficulties, sports provide a path and teach fair competition, with rivals learning to view each other as opponents rather than enemies.
Moreover, sports foster relationships between athletes and supporters, teaching mutual respect through shared experiences. The Secretary emphasized that our history and heritage demonstrate that human life, peace, and freedom are all fragile and invaluable. Following the tragic world wars of the 20th century, a new goal emerged in many European countries: for soldiers to meet on sports fields rather than battlefields. In this spirit, the International Military Sports Council was founded in 1948, with Hungary joining in 1991.
Tamás Vargha stressed that the members of the Hungarian Defence Forces parachute team, with their outstanding professional skills,
serve as role models beyond their sports achievements,
which is a fundamental value of the Hungarian military. He also expressed pride that Hungary can once again host this championship after six years.
‘It is an honour for our country, our nation, and the city of Szolnok to once again welcome the elite of the world’s military parachutists,’ he said, adding that it is an excellent opportunity to showcase our military unity and strength.
Szolnok Mayor Ferenc Szalay stated that the city and the army have been connected for many decades, if not centuries: they think together, work together, rejoice together, and mourn together. He reported that a helicopter brigade and a special purpose brigade had settled in Szolnok.
He noted that the Hungarian parachute team has always had a significant number of members from Szolnok, and this remains true today. The city effectively supports their preparation to enable them to compete in this sport as successfully as possible.
According to the press material distributed at the event, the 46th CISM World Military Parachuting Championship is being held in Szolnok from 2–13 July. The opening ceremony will be held in downtown Szolnok on 3 July.
Related articles:
