Hungarian Minister of Culture and Innovation Csák: For Hungarians, Turkey is like a big brother
Hungarian Minister of Culture and Innovation János Csák said, “We Hungarians see ourselves as a Turkic nation coming from Central Asia, even from the east of Central Asia. We consider ourselves the closest eastern country to the west and the closest western country to the east.”
Minister Csák evaluated the cultural relations between the two countries to an AA correspondent on the occasion of the 2024 Turkish-Hungarian Culture Year.
Expressing his satisfaction with his visit to Turkey and the hospitality of the Turkish people, Csák said, “This is my first visit to Turkey, and I have wanted to see Turkey for a very long time.”
Csák emphasized that since the beginning of diplomatic relations between Hungary and Turkey, the two nations have always adopted a sincere understanding of each other’s issues and that their relationship spans many years.
“The relations between the two countries have never been better. We Hungarians see ourselves as a Turkic nation coming from Central Asia, even from the east of Central Asia. We consider ourselves the closest eastern country to the west and the closest western country to the east,” he said.

Csák, comparing Hungary to Turkey, noted that Turkey also stands on both Europe and Asia, providing a good foundation for cultural, intellectual, and even spiritual relations.
Csák stated that nations like Turkey and Hungary, which have faced many challenges throughout history, share similar characteristics and have the responsibility to share their experiences with the world.
“For us Hungarians, Turkey is like a big brother. It is a populous, very active, very sincere, and curious nation that plays a significant geopolitical role in this region,” said Csák. He emphasized that one of the important areas for his country, being in a very open and beautiful location in Europe, is to understand the world around them.
János Csák described Hungary as a gateway to the east, west, north, and south, and explained that it shares similar cultural characteristics with other countries.
Csák mentioned that sometimes these similarities run deeper, pointing out that it is not surprising that the famous Hungarian composer Béla Bartók visited Turkey 100 years ago and collected works of Turkish music.

Minister Csák pointed out that throughout history, many Hungarians have contributed to Turkey’s industrial and cultural success.
Csák stated, “There are many works from the period when we lived together 150 years ago in Hungary.” He mentioned that Hungarians have always been interested in Turkey, Istanbul, the Mediterranean coast, and historical regions. Because they are familiar with the culture, they feel a heartfelt connection when they visit Turkey.
He also noted that many bakeries and restaurants in Hungary are operated by Turks, saying, “I can say that bilateral relations are excellent in cultural, political, and other areas.”
Csák emphasized that he is working to ensure the continuity of these relations, stating that when people get to know each other better, preserve their heritage, and do not forget their past and what they possess, this is the best way to maintain peace.
Referring to ongoing wars in the world, János Csák reiterated the importance of maintaining peace, saying, “We see Turkey as Hungary’s strategic partner.”

100 Events in Both Countries
Highlighting the significance of the events organized in Hungary and Turkey on the occasion of the 2024 Turkish-Hungarian Culture Year, Minister Csák emphasized that friendships will be strengthened by spending time together and getting to know each other.
Csák recalled that programs celebrating the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the friendship between the two countries included classical music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions.
Csák mentioned that 100 events will be held throughout the year in both countries, and noted that since December 2023, 50 events have already been organized in Hungary.
Touching on the cooperation between Turkey and Hungary, Csák stated that he wanted to draw attention to two main topics, the first being “demography.”
Pointing out that countries in every region of the world are struggling with the effects of modernity, particularly the challenges brought by technology and changing lifestyles, Csák emphasized that while the developments in this area bring opportunities, they also have negative impacts.

Minister Csák pointed out that the gap between the new and older generations is widening and that family relationships are weakening, highlighting that countries are experiencing issues with birth rates and establishing families.
Csák emphasized the importance of passing on cultural heritage and the beauties considered sources of happiness to new generations, just as it was done 100 years ago, noting that there is ongoing cooperation with Turkish officials on this matter.
Discussing the support his country provides to the institution of family, Csák explained that Hungary has developed a comprehensive system that includes various financial supports, such as housing assistance, aiming to balance private and family life.
Expressing his willingness to benefit from Turkey’s support in this area, Csák noted that there is much for the two countries to learn from each other.
Csák also touched upon the cooperation in the fields of innovation and science between the two countries, recalling that his country has received multiple Nobel Prizes in the field of science and research.
He stated that the time has come for universities and institutes in Hungary and Turkey to work together.
Csák mentioned that many Turkish companies have visited Hungary for manufacturing and tourism purposes, saying, “I hope we can identify a few areas in our innovation and research programs, focusing on our preferences and how to deal with the challenges of the new digital age and artificial intelligence.”
János Csák highlighted another important issue: the “green economy,” pointing to global problems affecting the world.
Source: aa.com.tr