Visa-free travel for diplomats as Pakistan, Hungary sign agreement

Pakistan and Hungary have formalised a diplomatic visa waiver agreement, allowing holders of diplomatic passports to travel between the two countries without requiring visas.

Additionally, both sides signed two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) to boost cooperation in the fields of culture and archaeology.

The agreements were concluded during a visit to Islamabad by Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, who was invited by Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

The visit marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Szijjártó is accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes 17 business representatives, aiming to explore investment opportunities across various sectors in Pakistan.

During a joint press conference, the Hungarian minister expressed satisfaction over the agreements and acknowledged Pakistan’s role in combating militancy, which he said contributes to Europe’s broader security.

He also raised concerns about terrorism threats emanating from Afghanistan and their implications for migration into Europe.

Deputy PM Dar described the signed agreements as significant steps toward deepening bilateral cooperation and strengthening people-to-people ties.

The visit aligns with Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to attract European investment in sectors such as energy, tourism, agriculture, and mining, following similar engagements with Gulf countries.