Hungary has opened a new consulate in Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi.

The Inauguration ceremony of the Honorary Consulate took place on Monday, February 11 at Asokwa Residential Area in Kumasi.

The welcome addresses were given by Andras Szabo, Ambassador of Hungary and Istvan Joo, Deputy State Secretary for Export Development.

Also in attendance were Nana Baffour Adjei Fosu (Otumfo Anantahene); Mr. Simon Osei-Mensah (Ashanti Regional Minister); Kumasi City Mayor, Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, Carmel Mouhtiseb (Hon. Consul of Latvia in Ghana); members of the Ghana Hungarian Business Council, members of the Attorney Generals Department, members of the Ghana Police Service, members of the Ghana Bar Association and many dignitaries.

According to the Honorary Consul, Imad Wolley, In October 2016, the government of Hungary reopened its Embassy in Ghana after about 30 years of being closed down. 

That event marked a new beginning of Ghana-Hungary relations. Monday’s event was another step aimed at deepening that relationship for the mutual benefit of both countries.

The relationship between Ghana and Hungary is a special one, with huge prospects for both countries. 

Last year, at the 4th Hungarian Forum, it was stated that the government of Hungary plans to set up regional agricultural centres to promote the transfer of knowledge and technology. 

This consulate will play an integral role in attaining that goal. Hungary sees great potential in Ghana, especially pertaining to agricultural development; Ghana has had a long history of agriculture being a fundamental part of its socio-economic development. 

The vast arable farming lands, the huge farming communities and the teeming youth of Ghana pre-suggests that Ghana has all the basic essentials to become a powerhouse in agriculture. 

The government of Hungary has on several occasions in the past indicated its readiness to partner Ghana on its journey to becoming the powerhouse it is already well positioned to be. 

Support will be given in many forms, ranging from provision of seedlings, education on best practices as well as a ready market to ensure that the labours of all those involved will be rewarded.

“The opening of a diplomatic mission is a major step in enhancing the relations between any two countries and we believe that the establishment of this Consulate of Hungary here in Kumasi.

“It will further strengthen already existing diplomatic ties between Hungary and Ghana as well as provide a conduit for better relations especially in relation to trade, sanitation and agricultural development.,” he said.

He said there are already several Hungarian agencies, including donor agencies and private Hungarian businesses with a presence in Ghana, and the Consulate will assist in coordinating their activities for better results.

The ceremony was concluded by the unveiling of the Coat of Arms, singing national anthems and raising of flags.