STORY: Hungarian minister expects Hungary-China ties to be as "fragrant", "enduring" as Tokaji wine
SHOOTING TIME: Jan. 24, 2025
DATELINE: Jan. 25, 2025
LENGTH: 00:01:45
LOCATION: Budapest
CATEGORY: CULTURE

SHOTLIST:
1. various of Chinese Ambassador to Hungary Gong Tao delivering a speech
2. various of Hungarian Culture and Innovation Minister Balazs Hanko delivering a speech
3. SOUNDBITE (Hungarian): BALAZS HANKO, Hungarian Culture and Innovation Minister
4. various of the Chinese New Year reception

STORYLINE:

Hungarian Culture and Innovation Minister Balazs Hanko on Friday expressed his hopes for Hungary-China relations to be as "fragrant" and "enduring" as Hungarian Tokaji wine.

Hanko shared his wishes at the Chinese New Year reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Budapest.

Reflecting on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2024, Hanko called the past year a milestone in bilateral relations.

SOUNDBITE (Hungarian): BALAZS HANKO, Hungarian Culture and Innovation Minister
"The past year was particularly outstanding, as in 2024, we celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. We organized countless cultural, educational, and research events to mark the occasion. In 2025, we aim to continue building on these cultural ties through more exhibitions, joint concerts, and other initiatives, as we seek to further strengthen the already excellent relationship between the two countries."

Highlighting the stronger cultural ties between the two countries, Hanko cited the mutual establishment of cultural centers in Budapest and Beijing, noting that they have served as vital platforms for showcasing heritage and encouraging exchange.

Chinese Ambassador to Hungary Gong Tao described 2024 as a "golden voyage" in China-Hungary relations, citing deepened political trust and tangible progress in economic, cultural, tourism, and educational cooperation. Looking ahead to 2025, Gong called it "a year of harvest," with key projects nearing completion that will drive Hungary's economic and social development.

The evening featured captivating performances by the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music's Jiangnan Sizhu Orchestra, which played traditional Chinese pieces such as "The Dance of the Golden Snake" and "The Melody of Plum Blossoms." These performances embodied the Spring Festival's spirit of renewal and hope.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Budapest.
(XHTV)