Indonesia and Hungary Engage in Formal Talks on Sports Cooperation
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations in the realm of sports, Indonesia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports engaged in discussions with Hungary, exploring collaboration avenues in judo, rowing, canoeing, and water polo. The productive discourse took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in Jakarta on Wednesday, fostering dialogue between the ministry’s secretary, Gunawan Suswantoro, and Hungarian Ambassador to Indonesia, Lilla Karsay.
Reflecting on the historical precedent of collaboration between Hungary and Indonesia, Secretary Suswantoro recalled a prior discussion held on April 4, 2017. During this exchange, potential cooperation in the aforementioned sports was explored, laying the groundwork for future endeavors.
Secretary Suswantoro warmly welcomed Ambassador Karsay’s visit, recognizing its significance in fortifying bilateral ties within the sporting domain. He affirmed that the outcomes of the dialogue would be promptly communicated to Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo, facilitating the progression of collaborative initiatives in sports and youth development.
Ambassador Karsay elucidated the purpose behind her visit, emphasizing the forthcoming visit of Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Peter Szijjarto, scheduled for June 12, 2024. The agenda of this visit seeks to delve into sports cooperation, with preparations underway to ensure comprehensive discussions.
Highlighting past achievements, Ambassador Karsay referenced collaborative efforts initiated two years prior through the National Olympic Committees of both nations. Agreements were successfully brokered, encompassing exchanges of coaches and athletes between Hungary and Indonesia. Hungarian athletes specialized in swimming, water polo, canoeing, and fencing, while their Indonesian counterparts hailed from badminton and rock climbing.
An implemented Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) underscored the commitment to coach exchanges and athlete placements, facilitating mutual growth in sporting prowess. Ambassador Karsay further disclosed Indonesia’s fencing team’s participation in a month-long training camp in Hungary last year, showcasing the tangible outcomes of bilateral collaboration.
As the dialogue progresses and plans materialize for the upcoming ministerial visit, both nations anticipate fostering enduring partnerships that transcend borders and enhance sporting excellence. The envisioned collaboration stands as a testament to the enduring bond between Indonesia and Hungary, founded on shared values of athleticism, camaraderie, and mutual respect.
