Hungary to invest in plane assembly plant, open embassy

DODOMA: TANZANIA and Hungary have sealed a landmark agreement to enhance diplomatic relations and economic collaboration through the reopening of a Hungarian embassy in Dar es Salaam.

The central European nation has also agreed to invest in a small plane assembling plant in Morogoro Region.

The momentous decision was unveiled on Thursday following a bilateral meeting between Minister Foreign Affairs and East African Co-operation Mr January Makamba, and Hungary’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, during the latter’s official visit to Tanzania.

Minister Szijjártó, exuding enthusiasm and commitment to fostering stronger ties, emphasised the significance of physical presence in Tanzania in cementing robust relationships.

“I have asked for the authorisation and approval of the minister (Makamba) for Hungary to open a diplomatic representation here in Dar es Salaam. And, if I understood correctly, I got it. Yes… So, in the upcoming months, we will establish diplomatic representation of Hungary in Dar es Salaam to give the necessary background for the improved cooperation between our two countries,” he said during a press conference, as Minister Makamba nodded, a sign of approval.

“The step is crucial in nurturing the growing friendship between the nations.” Minister Szijjártó added.

Confirming Tanzania’s endorsement of Hungary’s initiative, Mr Makamba expressed optimism about the positive impact the move would have on bilateral relations.

“We gladly welcome Hungary’s decision to establish its mission in Tanzania as a symbol of our deepening diplomatic ties. This dedicated representation will serve as a beacon of cooperation and mutual understanding,” declared Minister Makamba, highlighting the importance of direct diplomatic channels. In a bid to further solidify their democratic partnership, Hungary has made a strategic investment plan in establishing a small plane assembly industry in Morogoro.

Minister Makamba lauded the business venture plan as a cornerstone for future economic collaborations and a testament to Hungary’s confidence in Tanzania’s investment climate.

“The decision to invest in the small plane assembly industry signifies Hungary’s commitment to broadening our trade horizons and nurturing a culture of innovation within Tanzania. This partnership heralds a new chapter in our economic relations,” remarked Minister Makamba, underlining the potential for job creation and technology transfer.

Speaking about the initiatives to enhancing the tourism sector, Minister Makamba revealed that the two are working on the drafts to prepare an MoU to initiating a direct flight route from Hungary to Tanzania.

The minister revealed a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals from Hungary, from 5000 four years ago to 11,000 last year, signalling a promising trend towards increased tourism inflow.

Thus, with the aim of further amplifying this growth trajectory, minister Makamba affirmed the commitment to kickstart a direct flight route, a move set to bolster tourism ties and facilitate smoother travel between the two countries.

In a notable development, Minister Makamba also sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of Ministry for Water with the Ministry of Interior of Hungary on cooperation in water management.

Recognising Hungary’s expertise in technology and water management, he highlighted the potential for knowledge exchange and technological collaboration to address water resource challenges in Tanzania.