Dear Visitor,

Welcome to the webpage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary dedicated to illustrating some of the Ministry’s activities in the field of international development cooperation and humanitarian aid. The Department for International Development, now part of the Deputy State Secretariat for External Economic Relations, has as its primary objective the coordination of Hungary's international development policy, thereby contributing to the peaceful, sustainable development of the international community, in line with Hungary’s foreign policy.

International development cooperation (IDC) seeks to foster the sustainable development of all nations. Its aim is to eradicate poverty, whilst establishing and maintaining the requisite conditions for security and stability. IDC is thus a recognized cornerstone of international peace.

Over the past few years, a paradigm shift has taken place at the international level through the establishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the UN Framework for Sustainable Development (Agenda 2030) adopted in 2015. The SDGs place an even greater emphasis on the development of systemic and comprehensive partnerships, as well as on the vital role of the private sector in achieving the newly formulated goals. Moreover, the migration crisis that erupted in the summer of 2015 had the effect of focusing the international community’s attention on the importance of IDC. In line with the position of the Government of Hungary, a renewed emphasis has shifted to addressing the root causes of migration. IDC plays a key role in addressing such causes.

In line with this international paradigm shift as well as the recognition of the importance of global responsibility, Hungary's international development policy emphasises the need for international solidarity in providing effective local assistance. Our commitment is well-reflected by our efforts in supporting developing countries and contributing to regional and international security.

At the same time, IDC is a medium through which we may promote Hungarian culture, expertise and technologies. It enables us to create a more stable environment, whilst simultaneously promoting bi- and multilateral partnerships – including economic partnerships –, thus likewise benefiting Hungarians.

With regard to the Ministry’s humanitarian activities, our aim will continue to be the preservation of human lives, the alleviation of suffering, and the safeguarding of human dignity in situations of armed conflict and natural disasters.

The purpose of our website is to create an appropriate interface for those interested in Hungarian IDC, projects and tenders, as well as those interested in Hungarian international development activity . If you have any further questions regarding individual initiatives and projects, please contact the Department for International Development.

Sincerely yours,

István Joó

Deputy State Secretary