Switzerland and Hungary maintain close diplomatic relations, focusing particularly on intensive cooperation in commerce, education and cultural exchanges. 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Bilateral relations are also greatly influenced by the failed 1956 uprising against Soviet communism, which led to around 12,000 Hungarian refugees finding asylum in Switzerland.
With regard to bilateral relations, the president of the National Council and the speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly discussed cooperation on projects funded by Switzerland's second enlargement contribution, particularly in the field of vocational education and training. Hungary is one of the beneficiary countries of Switzerland's second contribution to selected EU member states (2019–2029) through which it is receiving a total of CHF 87.6 million. In addition to vocational education and training, the main areas of support concern education, research and innovation, SME financing, combating human trafficking, energy efficiency and renewable energy, water and wastewater management, health, social protection and minorities
Hungary is also an important trading partner for Switzerland in Central Europe. In 2024 Switzerland exported goods to the value of CHF 1.12 billion, while imports amounted to CHF 1.54 billion. Therefore, Pierre-André Page and László Kövér discussed Hungary's current economic situation and the country's development prospects.
The meeting in Bern also provided an opportunity to exchange views on relations between Switzerland and the European Union. With regard to the Switzerland-EU package, Pierre-André Page presented the key points of the dossier and the political debate in Switzerland to his Hungarian counterpart.
The two speakers then discussed the current international geopolitical situation, the security situation in Europe and prospects regarding the war in Ukraine. Mr Page also took the opportunity to enquire about the political situation in Hungary ahead of the national elections scheduled for 12 April.