What is the relationship between the Romanian and Hungarian governments like, and what role does the RMDSZ play in it? Can Szeklerland be granted autonomy? And why does Romania support Ukraine? We spoke with Romanian foreign policy analyst and former presidential adviser Iulian Chifu in Tusványos.
Hungary launched its Home Start home ownership programme, offering fixed 3-per-cent mortgages with just a 10-per-cent down payment required. Eligible first-time buyers rushed to apply, with thousands filing on day one. Officials hailed the record demand, as banks competed with discounts and extended hours to meet the surge.
Foreign tourism at Lake Balaton rose 17 per cent after Hungary’s state holiday, boosted by the return of MotoGP. The race weekend brought fans from across Europe, driving record guest nights and hotel revenues alongside the Zamárdi Strand Festival.
‘Gábor had mentioned that Pontozó is not about point-based scoring. Melinda added: “The festival is not about the competition—it’s about the opportunity to perform and the joy of being together. There will be no rankings, only evaluations, ensuring every participant receives recognition.”’
The Hungarian airline is planning to open a hub at Tel Aviv airport, but Israeli competitors may easily stand in its way. Executives of El Al have even lodged a complaint directly with Prime Minister Netanyahu against Wizz Air’s expansion.
A young American was stabbed in the face early Sunday in Dresden after intervening during harassment on a tram. Police briefly held a Syrian man before releasing him for lack of evidence, while the attacker remains at large. The case fuels controversy amid Germany’s migrant crime debate and AfD’s rise.
On 23 August, Europe observes the Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Totalitarian Regimes. The European Network Remembrance and Solidarity’s (ENRS) campaign ‘Remember. 23 August’ highlights intergenerational trauma and courage in the face of oppression, offering expert insights, short films, and educational resources.
Budapest’s St Stephen’s Day celebrations drew a record crowd, with over 798,000 visitors detected via mobile data—a 12.5 per cent rise from last year. The fireworks alone attracted more than 450,000 people, including nearly 89,000 foreign tourists, marking a 27 per cent surge compared to 2024.
‘Again and again, I find myself marveling at how beautifully God arranges everything. From the way we found this place, to how we were able to purchase it, to the way the Hungarian Cultural Center was established—it’s clear that His hand has guided us through it all.’
‘There’s so much that can be done or can happen even if you don’t speak any Hungarian. If you’re the person in your family who cares about your Hungarian heritage but you don’t share what you know, who is going to? It’s up to you to do it.’