Diplomacy&Trade 2021 May by Diplomacy&Trade

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NEW CAST, OLD SHOW

RAÚL CASTRO STEPPED DOWN AS HEAD OF THE CUBAN COMMUNIST PARTY IN MID-APRIL – THUS, THE SECOND CASTRO-BROTHER DISAPPEARED FROM THE FRONTLINE OF POLITICAL LIFE ON THE ISLAND. HOWEVER, HE IS LIKELY TO WHISPER SOME ADVICE INTO THE EARS OF HIS SUCCESSOR, MIGUEL DÍAZ-CANEL BERMÚDEZ. SEE ANALYSIS ON pages 08

E-Mobility

industry

FOCUS

The Ministry of Innovation and Technology declared that it is of primary national economic interest for Hungary to join the developments generated by electric cars and to be at the forefront in the introduction and dissemination of innovative technologies. In our E-Mobility Focus, State Secretary Attila Steiner explains what the Ministry is doing to make electromobility available to the widest possible audience and to support the greening of transport. see compilation on pages 10-21

Best of Budapest & Hungary A return to business as usual is still very far even as the hospitality industry restarts in Hungary. The year 2020 was very painful for all and, of course, caused cancellation of all familiar activities. In consideration of how to survive this unprecedented event, Best of Budapest & Hungary wanted to highlight two symbolic achievements made even in these painful times. see awards on page 26

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letter from the publisher

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Working organically in the Tokaj wine region

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contents

Peter Freed PUBLISHER

AND DON’T FORGET

monthly in print - daily on the web

www.dteurope.com

05 ON THE RECORD 06-07 COMPANY BRIEFS 08 ANALYSIS

What awaits Cuba after the Castros? 10-21 E-MOBILITY Interview with State Secretary Attila Steiner; E.ON; Porsche Hungaria; Electric vehicles study; Siemens; Mercedes-Benz; Samsung SDI; Alte-Go/Alteo; 22 DIPLOMACY New ambassadors

23 EDUCATION

Happy Kids International Kindergarten and Nursery 24 WITTYLEAKS by the Ambassador of France 25 WHAT’S ON Concerts, festivals, events and exhibitions in and out of Budapest 26 AWARDS Charity and CSR Services Recognized 27 WINE TR Wines

PUBLISHER: Peter Freed EDITOR: Sándor Laczkó PHOTO EDITOR: Dávid Harangozó SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR: Tamás Varga ADMINISTRATION: Éva Madarász CONTRIBUTORS: Sándor Laczkó, Tamás Magyarics, Eszter Kinga Bassler, Pascale Andréani

DUTCH FOCUS – COMING SOON

PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS: depositphotos.com (Cover), Grazmel Photography (Cover), Can Stock Photo, elkh.org, Richard Monkey/gerontology.wikia.org, depositphotos.com, Heineken Hungária, HIPA NEWS/YouTube, HungaroControl, FrieslandCampina, Presidencia El Salvador/Wikimedia, Grazmel Photography, Árpád Kurucz, Volkswagen AG, Dániel Végel, Siemens, Mercedes-Benz AG, Samsung SDI, Embassy of France, István Szécsi, Friss Hús Budapest International Short Film Festival, Kristina Hrabětová, Péter Laczkó, TR Wines, MTI Photos: Imre Földi/MTI, Noémi Bruzák/MTI

In its June issue, Diplomacy&Trade – in cooperation with the Dutch Embassy in Budapest –presents a special Focus section on relations between Hungary and the Netherlands as the two countries have recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations. The Netherlands is one of the major distribution and logistics centers in Europe and an important trading partner for Hungary. The combined trade balance of the two countries is about EUR 7 billion. Ever since Hungary became a member of the EU, the number and volume of Dutch investments have increased significantly. Currently, there are over 800 Dutch ventures in Hungary. The special section includes an extensive interview with Ambassador René van Hell discussing economic ties, cultural and civilian cooperation. We also talk to the Netherlands-Hungarian Chamber of Commerce in Budapest.

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COPIES ARE AVAILABLE AT SELECTED RELAY AND INMEDIO OUTLETS IN MAJOR HUNGARIAN CITIES.

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GERGELY RÁKI, SINGAPORE AIRLINES, DÁVID HARANGOZÓ, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Event guide to the Hungarian capital

DÁVID HARANGOZÓ, PÉTER LACZKÓ, TR WINES, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Four and a half years after the death of Fidel Castro, Raúl Castro stepped down as head of the Cuban Communist Party in mid-April, thus, the second Castro brother disappeared from the frontline of political life on the island. Our international affairs analyst explores the possibilities of what future awaits Cubans after the Castros. As the successor has already served the Communist party as a loyal member for many years and is an orthodox follower of the Castros’ policies, not much is likely to change in Cuba with this passing of the baton. However, other factors may. Electro-mobility is our focus topic as its infrastructure, manufacturing and service capacity is growing: the number of electric charging stations (and the network that powers them), the range of electric/hybrid cars, the number of battery production sites in Hungary. We present the government view on the issue as well as reports on how the corporate sector is contributing to the spreading of this technology. Our education feature presents the Hungarian capital’s best known international kindergarten and nursery where children from 20+ different nationalities are provided a multicultural learning environment and a wide range of afternoon activities very much appreciated by the expatriate community in Budapest. This month, WittyLeaks is authored by the French ambassador who – on the apropos of being admitted to the ‘The Brotherhood of Knights of Wine of Tokaj’ – looks at the Tokaj wine region in NE Hungary as a telling symbol of the close relationship between France and Hungary dating back centuries even on the wine line. Tourism and hospitality had been decimated by COVID-19 restrictions and the annual Best of Budapest & Hungary Awards were also reduced to two categories this year: ‘Gastro Entrepreneur of the Year’ and ‘Helping Hands’. Our wine page highlights TR Wines who turned to organic viticulture. The owners explain how they managed to convert a decades-old vine plantation in the Tokaj wine region into an organic vineyard that produces fine Furmint wine. May brings further easement of Covid restrictions but it is still unclear how and when foreign travel rules will allow us to resume our normal activities. We are on the right path, so, stay safe and enjoy the Hungarian springtime!

Happy Kids, a multicultural learning page 23 environment in Budapest

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on the record size of green areas, preparations for tackling the effects of climate change on human health during all seasons, as well as education and climate awareness. The large-scale program would cost about HUF 2,500 billion (EUR 6.8 bn), part of which would be covered by the municipal council with the rest expected to be provided by using various forms of co-financing including planned contributions by the central government, banks, local districts and Budapest residents, according to the document.

DÁVID HARANGOZÓ, PÉTER LACZKÓ, TR WINES, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM, CAN STOCK PHOTO, ELKH.ORG, IMRE FÖLDI/MTI, RICHARD MONKEY/GERONTOLOGY.WIKIA.ORG

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COVID-19 DEATHS EXCEED 27,000, LOCKDOWN MEASURES EASED By April 28, the total official number of deaths related to the new coronavirus infection in Hungary increased to 27,172 and by the end of the month, the total number of identified infections was close to 780,000 since the start of the outbreak. Despite the world record number of deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, the Hungarian government decided to ease lockdown measures in the country on the apropos of four million citizens being inoculated with anti-COVID-19 vaccines (some of them not approved by the European Medicines Agency). It means that the curfew now starts at midnight and shops and restaurants are allowed to stay open until 11 pm. The interior of restaurants, hotels, leisure facilities, zoos, museums, cinemas, theaters, gyms and sporting events will be open to those with a protection certificate (issued to the inoculated after the first jab), and minors accompanied by a relative are able to visit these places. Commenting on the remark that 50-60% of the population, including those who have been vaccinated and those who have contracted the disease, could now be protected, the head of the infectiology department at the South Pest Central Hospital, Dr. János Szlávik said that was not enough to bring the numbers down. "We need to vaccinate another one or two million people, maybe even three million, to have a very serious reduction in the epidemic and a serious reduction in the risk of the virus returning to Hungary," he added.

EU-SUPPORTED RESEARCH PROGRAM COMPLETED IN SZEGED Based on the previous results of the staff of the Biological Research Center (BRC) in Szeged, SE Hungary, a health and environmental research program implemented with EU support of about HUF two billion has been completed at the institution belonging to the Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Péter Heffner, head of the application office at BRC, informed the state news agency MTI. The aim of the program was to research the foundations of unsolved health problems at the societal level in Hungary. The spread of infectious diseases, the emergence of antibioticresistant bacterial strains, the development of malignancies, the general health problems associated with aging and the protection of the environment – these problems all need urgent solutions, but at least mitigation. The four-and-a-half-year project was built on three pillars: unicellular research to combat infectious and genetic diseases, the molecular background of individual development, regeneration and aging in animal model organisms, cell cultures and artificial tissue models, and the complex interactions of light and plant systems. The priorities of each pillar were different, however, there were a number of synergies between the individual programs, both in terms of molecular biology problem-solving and methodological approach. The complete study of proteins, lipids, metabolic products, bioinformatics analyzes were performed in all three areas with a fundamentally similar concept and toolkit.

TOURISM NIGHTS DOWN BY 90% As a result of border crossing restrictions and COVID-19 protection measures for commercial accommodation, domestic tourists spent 86% fewer tourism nights in commercial accommodation establishments (hotels, boarding houses, camping sites, bungalow complexes and community hostels) this February compared to the same period of the previous year. International guests spent 94% fewer nights, the Central Statistical Office reports. 68% of all tourism nights were spent by domestic guests. Total gross sales of commercial accommodation establishments, calculated at current prices, were 90% lower than in February of the previous year. In February 2021, compared to the same month of the

BUDAPEST MAYOR SIGNS CITY CLIMATE STRATEGY

Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony has approved the capital city’s new climate strategy, and energy and climate action plan, which sets the goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by at least 40% by 2030 against 2015 levels. He also approved Budapest’s green infrastructure development and sustainability action plan, according to a package of documents posted on the budapest.hu website. Budapest’s overall energy consumption related to CO2 emission totaled 6,109,183 tons in 2015. The largest emissions originated from the energy consumption of public buildings, followed by transport, the documents show. The largest cut in CO2 emission can be achieved by improving the energy use of buildings and next by increasing the use of public transport and cycling, it said. The document identifies among the actions the improvement of the energy efficiency of buildings, industrial production and service facilities, as well as increasing the share of renewable energy sources. The actions further include improving the energy efficiency of the transport infrastructure, developing environment-friendly transport methods, increasing the w w w . d t e u r o p e . c o m

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previous year, 42,000 domestic guests (90% decrease) spent 123,000 tourism nights (86% decrease). 61% of nights were spent in hotels, an 89% decline. The turnover in boarding houses and community hostels was about one third (36% and 33% respectively) of the turnover in February of the previous year. The Balaton tourism region saw the largest decline. The number of foreign arrivals and tourism nights fell by 95% and 94% respectively, with 19,000 guests spending 58,000 tourism nights in accommodation establishments. Most guests stayed in hotels, however, the number of nights spent there decreased to 5.9% compared to February 2020. Budapest and the Balaton tourist region recorded the largest declines (99% and 96%, respectively). T R A D E

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OLYMPIC CHAMPION DIES OF NEW CORONAVIRUS INFECTION

Hungarian Olympic, world and European champion skeet shooter Diána Igaly, Vice-President of the Hungarian Sport Shooting Association died on April 9 at the age of 57 years of her life due to complications of the new coronavirus infection. She had been hospitalized a few days for a disease caused by a coronavirus infection. Diána Igaly is one of the greatest figures of Hungarian sport shooting, she won everything she could in women's skeet. She triumphed in the individual competition at the Athens Olympics in 2004, at the World Championships in Barcelona in 1998 and in Lahti in 2002, and at the European Championships in Bologna in 1991. She won Olympic bronze medalist at the 2000 Sydney Games and she also has two world and three European team titles in addition to 22 Hungarian Championship individual titles.

EU GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION GRANTED FOR HUNGARIAN FRUIT The European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs accepted the application for registration of ‘Budaörsi őszibarack’, a peach from Budaörs, a town just southwest of Budapest. According to the registry, the name ‘Budaörsi őszibarack’ may be used for peaches for fresh consumption of local varieties grown in the geographical area that meet the quality characteristics. The fruit must have a diameter of at least 60 mm and a weight of at least 110 g. The peaches are characterized by an anthocyanic (red) color covering more than 20% of the fruit, total soluble solids exceeding 9.9% and total acidity of at least 0,38%. The specific organoleptic characteristics are: intense fragrance, flavorsome taste with a rich aroma and a full sweet flavor with lively citric acidity; and fruit flesh with a juicy consistency. Its flesh that may be white or yellow or red is ripe to the touch, not too hard, but is still suitable for transport. The fruit may be freestone (the flesh of the fruit detaches easily from the stone) or clingstone (the flesh of the fruit cannot be fully detached from the stone).

OLDEST HUNGARIAN CITIZEN PASSES AWAY AT THE AGE OF 113

The oldest person in Hungary, Veronika Zsilinszki, died on April 20 at the age of 113. She was born on 4 February 1908 in Kevevara, Vojvodina (then Austria-Hungary, now Serbia), from where she moved to the town of Baja (S Hungary) with her parents and two siblings when she was still a small child. "During her long life, she worked mostly as a manual laborer and had several accidents, but her luck never ran out. She raised her only son and then his grandson with honor. She was a very sociable person in her youth, she loved to dance and talk, but she also enjoyed gardening and reading. Nowadays, her health prevents her from doing most of these activities, but, as she pointed out, she still feels the love she receives,” the local news site baja.hu wrote about her in an earlier article. In February 2019, the Ministry of Interior confirmed to baja.hu that Veronika Zsilinszki was the eldest person, and after the news of her death, the local website received the information that "she was the first Hungarian person in history to reach the age of 113 years."

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company briefs ROCHE TO ENLARGE SSC CENTER IN BUDAPEST

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Roche is going to increase the SSC headcount (that has been raised from 900 to 1,230 in the past four years) by 150 employees in the field of complex HR functions, and plans to enlarge it further by 100 people in the field of finance functions by the end of 2021.

HEINEKEN HUNGÁRIA REMOVES PET BOTTLES FROM PORTFOLIO Heineken Hungária has been the first large-scale brewery to withdraw PET bottle products from its portfolio in the name of sustainability. It says that as an environmentally conscious company, it has been using and marketing exclusively glass, barrel and endlessly recyclable aluminum can products in its portfolio this year. In another ‘green’ step, Heineken Hungária is renewing one of its leading premium brands with a significant commitment and a big step towards sustainability. As of this year, the Gösser and Gösser Natur Zitrone radlers will no longer be packaged in PET bottles, which will relieve the environment from nearly 200 tons of plastic per year. In addition to the type of packaging, the design and brand are also being renewed, and the offerings are also changing in the Gösser portfolio. The Gösser Natur Zitrone 2% Lemon product, which introduced the radler category in Hungary in 2009, and its non-alcoholic

siblings will be on the shelves under the umbrella of Gösser from this season, that is, under the name Gösser. In addition to the well-known Lemon and mango-lemon flavors, the cranberry-lemon flavor is also introduced, which combines the freshness of lemon and the refreshing astringency of blueberry berries. Always keeping in mind the quality requirements, the manufacturer uses only natural ingredients for the flavors.

NATIONAL BANK BECOMES CARBON NEUTRAL WITH WWF HUNGARY The National Bank of Hungary (MNB) plans to neutralize its ecological footprint in close cooperation with WWF Hungary. Last year, the Bank successfully started compensating carbon-dioxide emissions at its international green conferences, by providing funds for forest restoration at Pápateszér, W Hungary. As part of its Green Program launched nearly two years ago, the National Bank of Hungary wishes to be at the forefront in Hungary regarding the ‘greening’ of its own operation. The Bank also made an ambitious commitment to reduce its carbon-dioxide emission, meaning that it would cut back on its greenhouse-gas footprint by 30% in the following two years, and by 80% until 2025. This undertaking significantly exceeds the EU’s 2030 emission reduction target of 40%, and the level of 55% to be approved as a result of the revision of the legislation currently in effect. In order to compensate for all emissions that cannot be reduced further, MNB wishes to implement habitat restoration projects which will be capable of absorbing the entire amount of its carbon footprint in the coming years. To achieve this, the Bank invited WWF Hungary to map habitat restoration projects justified in terms of environmental protection in December 2020. Acting on a proposal made by the Foundation, the MNB plans to implement an afforestation project of 27 hectares near the eastern Hungarian village of Geszt in the Kőrös-Maros National Park on the Romanian border in 2021. As a result, the National Bank of Hungary is among the first of the world’s central banks to make a commitment to long-term carbon neutrality. M A Y

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DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM, NOÉMI BRUZÁK/MTI, HEINEKEN HUNGÁRIA

The first large scale (up to 10-20 MWh) geothermal project is to be put in place in Budapest’s district heating system. The project is an envisaged cooperation between the Budapest district heating company FŐTÁV Nonprofit Co. Ltd. and Arctic Green Energy (Arctic), a company with an Icelandic background and the owner of a considerable international geothermal energy generation and project development portfolio, FŐTÁV says. The project may save up to 21,000 tons of CO2 emission a year in the Hungarian capital. The Project snugly fits in with the medium-term business strategy just recently adopted by FŐTÁV, laying out the district heating related technical/professional objectives of the single Budapest utility company BKM Budapesti Közművek (‘Budapest Utilities’) Nonprofit Co. Ltd., a new entity scheduled to start operating in the near future. The Cooperation Agreement just signed by the Hungarian and Icelandic partners is focused on the first substantive phase of the project, comprising an exploration of the potential locations, obtaining the necessary permits, authorizations and/or licenses, as well as the overall technical, economic and legal preparations. Europe aims to achieve a 40% reduction in its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 relative to the 1990 levels, while the share of energy generated from renewable sources is to be increased to at least 32% of its gross final energy consumption. The district heating sector is to play a major role in accomplishing the climate protection goals, so the fact that the National Energy Strategy adopted in Hungary last year includes a Green District Heating Program is no coincidence. In line with the objective laid down in the program the share of natural gas in district heat generation will be reduced from the current 70% to 50% in Hungary as a whole by 2030, in which the maximum possible utilization of geothermal energy may play a crucial role. District heat generation is regulated in Hungary through administrative prices, therefore the pricing to be applied to the geothermal heat generating units to be put in place in Hungary will also be regulated by the Hungarian Energy and Public Utility Regulatory Authority. FŐTÁV’s priority strategic goal – in line with the Green District Heating Program and Budapest’s climate protection goals – is to make the district heating market greener, in which the development of geothermal energy capacities, utilizing the resources and conditions available in the capital city, plays a key role, besides increasing heat generation from waste. In a longer run, the company aims at installing geothermal heat generating capacity of a total of approx. 150-200 MWh. For this reason, FŐTÁV will be ready to embark on similar cooperation arrangements with Arctic even after the agreement just signed, as well as with other partners also with similarly impressive technical and professional references. Arctic’s operations include the design, construction and operation of power plants and heating plants relying on geothermal energy, as well as the sale of the electricity and heat energy output. A facility of a capacity of 20 MWh could generate geothermal energy of at least 300.000-400.000 GJ/year, which would cut CO2 emission by 14.000-21.000 ton/year, and save the emission of other local air pollutants 20,000-30,000 kg/year. A pair of wells of such a capacity could cover the total annual district heat supply for approx. ten thousand average homes in Budapest.

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GEOTHERMAL DISTRICT HEAT GENERATION PROJECT IN BUDAPEST

The Switzerland-based pharmaceutical company Roche is going to increase the number of its collaborators in positions creating high added value in its service center located in the Hungarian capital. The 250 new employees will provide support to the subsidiaries of Roche in 60 countries in the fields of finance, purchasing, HR and information technology. Roche is a worldwide leader and pioneer in pharmaceutical research and production, as well as in the field of the development and distribution of diagnostics instruments. The world's largest company engaged in biotechnology has three service centers worldwide: in Budapest, San José and Kuala Lumpur. The largest one is located in Budapest: Roche Szolgáltató (Európa) Kft. (‘Roche Service Europe Ltd.’), which was founded in 2006 and which provides full-scale support for more than 120 Roche subsidiaries in the entire Europe, Middle-East, Africa (EMEA) region by a staff counting almost 1,300 employees, in the fields of finance, purchasing, HR and IT. The service center located in Budapest has been extended continuously. It launched its IT Global User Services in 2017 that caters for global user needs and provides IT support services in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In the light of the positive experiences gained in Hungary, the company strengthened its presence in Hungary further in 2019 and established its European Pharmaceuticals Security Center in Budaörs, just outside Budapest.

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c ompany briefs BORSODI BREWERY: LESS BEER SOLD BUT EMPLOYEES RETAINED

Although Borsodi Brewery's results last year fell short of the previous, highly successful year, the company was able to retain all its employees despite the challenges caused by the coronavirus epidemic. According to publicly available data, the net sales of Borsodi Brewery in 2019 were HUF 44.6 billion (of which domestic sales were HUF 41.7 forints and export sales HUF 2.89 billion), up about 10% year-on-year. Its operating profit was HUF 828 million in 2019, up from HUF 202.5 million in the previous year. The company, which employs 420 people, has not disclosed last year's figures for the time being, saying only that it is in line with market trends, turnover fell by almost 7.5% compared to 2019. It was stressed that the complete stoppage of tourism and catering, as well as the cancellation of sporting events and festivals, had a major impact on the business results of Borsodi Brewery – this affected the cask beer market in the HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) segment, which saw sales volumes drop by almost half. Despite the outbreak, it completed its three-year, EUR 12 million investment in 2020, expanding the capacity of its Bőcs plant (NE Hungary) to 2.5 million hectoliters per year. This year, the company plans to focus mainly on logistical improvements, while also concentrating on expanding its portfolio. They pointed out that the popularity of non-alcoholic products is growing, and comparing the results of last year and 2019, this segment performed the best. This is one of the reasons why Borsodi Brewery is continuously expanding its non-alcoholic Borsodi Friss portfolio, this year with the addition of apple-cider flavor.

The Japanese Seiren company specializing in the manufacturing of automotive interior materials and textiles establishes its first European manufacturing unit in Hungary with an investment of more than EUR 42 million. With the investment – 30% of which is covered by Hungarian taxpayers' money –, the company is to create 170 jobs by 2022, and will provide synthetic leather car seat covers for the European automotive market from its plant in Pécs, S Hungary. Seiren, with a tradition of nearly 100 years, has 11 subsidiaries in Japan alone and 19 subsidiaries in other countries. The company intends to contribute to the electric car production by producing eco-friendly synthetic leather car seats, which are made using inorganic substances. In addition to environmentally friendly production, the abrasion resistance of this synthetic leather is four times higher and weighs only half as much as natural animal skin. The life expectancy of seat covers of this type is over ten years and facilitates the installation of numerous highquality additional functions. The 26,000 sqm production hall in Hungary will be suitable for the production of synthetic leather seat covers of 4,100,000 meters/year.

NISSIN FOODS INCREASES PRODUCTION IN KECSKEMÉT

The Japanese firm Nissin Foods, which makes instant pasta dishes, is expanding its capacity in the east-central Hungarian city of Kecskemét. During the project, new machinery and equipment will be installed in the plant and the storage area will be expanded. The project of EUR 12 million to be realized by 2024 creates 20 new jobs while retaining 314 existing ones, the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency reports. Nissin Europe was founded in the Netherlands 30 years ago and moved to Kecskemét in 2004. Since then, it has been the only European production unit for the company. 90% of the products manufactured here are exported to more than 20 countries. 54% of the raw materials used, including high quality local grain flour and packaging materials, are sourced from Hungarian suppliers. In 2017, the company established a new plant in Kecskemét with a greenfield investment. The new production unit replacing the old factory hall meant a significant increase in capacity, so the size of the company has doubled in recent years. In the current project, Nissin will install new machinery and equipment to increase production capacity and extend the product portfolio, while a new warehouse will also be built. As a result of developments ending in 2024, the company can serve the increased demand in Europe and create 20 new jobs on top of the current headcount of more than 300 employees.

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DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM, HIPA NEWS/YOUTUBE, HUNGAROCONTROL, FRIESLANDCAMPINA

SYNTHETIC LEATHER CAR SEAT COVER FACTORY ESTABLISHED

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HUNGAROCONTROL RECEIVES EUR 22 MILLION UPGRADE

One of the most significant investments of the Hungarian air traffic control firm HungaroControl has been completed, where the company's air navigation and voice communication systems and controller working positions have been completely renewed in the last six months. Thanks to the development, controllers will continue to be able to ensure flight safety from one of the most advanced, state-of-the-art centers in Europe, the company says. After thorough and long preparations, work started in October 2020 and about 90% of the system equipment was replaced in HungaroControl's air traffic control center, the tower and technical rooms. Hardware and network equipment of MATIAS air navigation and Frequentis voice communication systems – operating 24/7 – have been upgraded. Replacing analog communication channels, advanced digital solutions created an even more transparent environment for controllers, thus further increasing the level of aviation safety. This unique development not only replaced the hardware and about 500 kilometers of wiring for these systems, but also upgraded the software required for air navigation services: the latest version of MATIAS software includes 13 new solutions to meet the needs of air traffic controllers and the highest international standards. Resting areas have also been refurbished and 55 workstations have been converted to accommodate both sedentary and standing work. With more than EUR 22 million invested, HungaroControl’s world-class experts continue to manage air traffic of Hungary and Kosovo from one of the most advanced centers in Europe. In the transitional period air navigation services were performed from HungaroControl's contingency and simulation facility that has been operational since 2015. Air traffic controllers were able to reoccupy the renovated control center in recent days. The carefully planned transition went smoothly and unnoticed, without a second of downtime in air navigation service provision.

FRIESLANDCAMPINA EXPANDING CAPACITY IN HUNGARY The Dutch dairy company FrieslandCampina invests in capacity expansion and infrastructure modernization in Mátészalka, NE Hungary. The project related to the production of high value-added desserts and fermented milk products is to be realized from more than EUR 14 million, some 20% of which is covered by Hungarian taxpayers. FrieslandCampina is the world's largest cooperative-owned dairy company and one of the five largest dairy companies worldwide. FrieslandCampina Hungária holds a leading position in the Hungarian dairy market with its branded, high value-added milk products. The iconic 'Túró Rudi' (a chocolate-coated curd bar) is marketed under the 'Pöttyös' ('Dotted') brand, whereas the Milli, Oké, Frico, Debic, Landliebe and Completa product ranges are also significant. The plant in Mátészalka was nearing its maximum production capacity, therefore, with the new investments, the company intends to increase it, thus meeting the increased domestic and international demand for the products, the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency reports. The investment will result in an increase in production capacity of around 25%, while retaining existing jobs and substantially modernizing technology. To achieve this, new production and packaging machines, cooking equipment and storage capacities will be provided. Altogether, production and storage areas will also be extended over the next four years.

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analysis the softer approach of the Obama administration; despite the fact that Joseph Biden as Vice President was rumored to support normalizing relations with Cuba, President Biden’s White House has let it be known that Cuba is not a top priority. In other words, the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration are to stay for some time to come. As a government official put it, “It’s no longer 2015.” In practice, the new administration may make some gestures of goodwill towards Cuba, but it is not likely to engage in serious diplomatic or trade talks with Havana. In reality, the Democratic administration is primarily concerned with relations with Mexico, a Central American ’northern triangle’ (Honduras, Guetamala, El Salvador) as one of the major sources of illegal immigration into the U.S., and Brazil – the latter because of the ambitious American plans on stopping or, at least, slowing down climate change, and Argentina where the Chinese are rumored to try to establish a military base (which would go directly against the Monroe doctrine). President Biden has to take his domestic constituency into consideration too: the majority of the Cuban-Americans and the ones who had fled from Venezuela voted for Donald Trump in 2020, and losing Florida repeatedly is not a welcome option for the Democratic Party. So, Cuba is remaining on the list of countries that support terrorism, alongside with, among others, Venezuela and Bolivia. Conversely, Mr. Díaz-Canel insists on maintaining good relations with China, Russia, North Korea and the Maduro and Morales regimes – none of them is an ally of the U.S…

WHAT AWAITS CUBA AFTER THE CASTROS? BY TAMÁS MAGYARICS

Raúl Castro stepped down as head of the Cuban Communist Party in midApril – thus, the second Castro brother disappeared from the frontline of political life on the island. Of course, it is an open question what influence he will be exercising behind the scenes; a relatively safe bet is that Raúl Castro is likely to whisper some advice into the ears of his successor, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez. The thing is that Mr. Díaz-Canel does not really need any tutoring: he has already received it in his adult years in the Communist party as a loyal member and an orthodox follower of the Castros’ policies. So, one may say, the old show is going on with one or two new members in the cast.

New show needed to change old conditions In reality, the new cast should produce a new show to a large extent. Cuba under Fidel Castro’s iron rule was a hardline Communist state with the usual characteristics: political repression coupled with mismanaged and poor economy, and one of the lowest living standards in the world. Cuba during the Cold War was kept above the surface by massive economic and financial aid provided by the fellow Communist countries, but their numbers dropped dramatically after

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1989, and with the collapse of the Soviet Union, even Fidel Castro had to realize that something should be done to avoid economic collapse and a concomitant social explosion. The mild reform steps, including the legalization of private enterprise on a small scale let some steam off, allegedly about a third of the Cubans have some income coming from private enterprises, but the country’s overall economic position has not improved. The drop of prices of Cuba’s staples, for instance that of sugar, which went hand in hand with the rise in that of, energy, among others, has put additional pressure on the political leadership.

United States vs. Cuba In addition, the US sanctions introduced in the early 1960s remained in force, and were even tightened at times with, for example, the HelmsBurton Act of 1996, which extended the territorial application of the original embargo on foreign companies trading with the Cubans. Though the 2010s saw a ’thaw’ in the relations between the U.S. and Cuba – the embassies were re-opened in July 2015, and Barack Obama visited Havana in 2016 as the first, and to date, the last American President to set foot on the island under Communist rule –, President Trump re-introduced business and travel restrictions in 2017 and 2019. Mr Díaz-Manel cannot expect a (quick) return to M A Y

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NEW CAST, OLD SHOW

Cuba has been hit, like most of the countries in the world, by the COVID-19 pandemic. The frail economy was further weakened (according to estimates, the GDP declined by some 11%, while imports dropped by some 40%), primarily because of the difficulties in tourism and catering. The economic hardships are affecting the ’flagships’ of the Cuban Communist system, the formerly relatively quality and free-ofcharge education and health care. In fact, Raúl Castro in his farewell speech urged further economic reforms because he knows that the current economic stagnation – and even slipping back – may have serious social and political consequences for his successor. In terms of social support, Díaz-Canel can still count on the benefit of doubt by the people, but longwinded speeches and organized mass rallies are not likely to satisfy the new generations of Cubans who know of the ’heroic’ struggles of the Castros and Che Guevara and the other ’founding fathers’ only from history books (two octogenarian members of the seventeenmember Politburo have also left the body with Raúl Castro), and the young do not even know what is was like to live in a world where Communism was a force across continents. The two dominant sentiments among people in Cuba are one of revolutionary sentimentality of the elderly, and one of cynicism among the younger generations. As one Cuban, anonymously, was quoted in a recent issue of the The New Yorker ”the revolutionary government is just a big theater piece that made its début sixty years ago and continues today. They’re not going to change anything and will do whatever they want as long as they can maintain control of things.” Tamás Magyarics is a foreign policy analyst

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Facing a new generation

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TAKENAKA EUROPE GmbH HUNGARY BRANCH OFFICE Architecture / Engineering / Construction www.takenaka.eu info@takenaka.hu

ASPIRING TO FINE FORM

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e-mobility

GREENER TRANSPORT FOR BETTER CLIMATE GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS AND INCENTIVES FOR ELECTROMOBILITY IN HUNGARY Less than two years ago, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology declared that it is of primary national economic interest for Hungary to join the developments generated by electric cars and to be at the forefront in the introduction and dissemination of innovative technologies (Ányos Jedlik Plan 2.0).

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Incentives

than 3,500 electric bicycles, over 500 electric scooters and now the purchase of 1,500 new, low-cost electric cars. “In addition to the above, I would like to highlight the Green Bus Program, which will not only make public transport more cost-effective, but also greener, as the CO2-absorbing capacity of 800 trees will be released for each electric bus. From 2022, only electric buses will be able to be commissioned as new buses in our big cities. Within the framework of the ‘Green Bus Demonstration Project’ operating as a test project, people had the opportunity to try these climate-friendly buses in Debrecen, Nyíregyháza, Békéscsaba, Székesfehérvár, Zalaegerszeg and Kecskemét.” M A Y

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Among the government measures concerning e-mobility, the best known to the public is the financial support for those purchasing electric vehicles mentioned by the State Secretary. In summarizing how the government is helping to promote electro-mobility in Hungary, he goes into more details. “Thanks to the tenders announced in connection with electromobility between 2016 and 2019, the purchase of more than 4,500 electric vehicles were put on the country’s roads, and the network of charging stations is also constantly expanding. About a thousand affordable electric cars have already been purchased thanks to the program, and by the way, we have just had the opportunity to hand over the one thousandth such vehicle to a customer.”

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“The Hungarian government has recognized the population's need for cleaner and better air quality and the importance of preserving our created world in its present state for future generations. It is well known that one of the most important driving sectors of the Hungarian economy is the automotive industry, so strengthening the electromobility sector is our top priority,” Attila Steiner, State Secretary for the Development of Circular Economy, Energy and Climate Policy at the Hungarian Ministry for Innovation and Technology explains to Diplomacy&Trade. Under the auspices of the broader climate policy context, but in the spirit of innovation and the development of the electromobility sector, which primarily means the modernization of urban transport, the Ányos Jedlik Plan was adopted in 2015, laying the foundations for the strategic background of electromobility. “Hungary is, by

the way, one of the first countries in the European Union to have drawn up a comprehensive electromobility plan in the framework of which the government has been promoting the purchase of purely electric vehicles through several calls for tenders and a budget of more than HUF 12.5 billion,” he adds. Since electromobility is developing extremely fast, on July 3, 2019, the Hungarian government adopted a revised version of the Plan, 2.0. The aim of the new construction is to make the opportunities and benefits of electromobility available to the widest possible audience, and to support the greening of transport with an additional HUF 5.88 billion. Subsequently, in 2020, the Climate and Environmental Protection Action Plan was adopted, the seventh point of which aims to ensure affordable electromobility, among other things. In terms of numbers, the State Secretary stresses that they have provided state support for more

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BY SÁNDOR LACZKÓ

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e-mobility

Last October, a call for tenders – in a total amount of a HUF one billion – was issued to support the purchase of electric-assisted bicycles (‘pedal electric cycle’ or pedelec). Under the tender, a non-refundable grant can be claimed for the purchase of a new electric-assisted bicycle in 12 stages. The first five phases of the period available for submission have already been completed, the sponsorship decision has been made regarding the submitted applications, in the total amount of HUF 376 million. As Attila Steiner adds, “with the implementation of the points of the Action Plan and the procurement subsidies, we have created a secure demand for the products of the electric vehicle manufacturing and distribution industry in the field of electromobility. Thanks to the Green Bus Program, among other things, domestic bus manufacturers – for example, IKARUS – and charging infrastructure operators could count on the Action Plan in the midst of the pandemic. Thanks to the incentive measures, opportunities offered by electromobility have become available to a wider audience, electric transport is no longer the privilege of the rich. By January 2021, more than 25,000 green license plates will run on domestic roads.”

Modernizing the bus fleet

cities with a population of over 25,000 to replace their outdated bus fleet. The Green Bus Project Office's call for proposals provides municipalities and public transport operators with up to 80% support for the purchase of electric buses and self-driving trolleybuses, and up to 60% support for infrastructure improvements necessary for the operation of the vehicles.

For sustainable battery production In addition to traditional vehicle manufacturing, the government is promoting the production of electric batteries as well as related industries. As to how the balance between the environmental benefits of driving an electric vehicle and the notso-environmentally friendly battery production can be created, Attila Steiner points out that “we are actually working on the National Battery Industry Strategy, which will cover the complete battery value chain from purchasing the raw materials and components to recycling. The Strategy will also include human resource development issues in order to provide the needed human capacity in this industry.” The Strategy aims to

achieve battery production that is sustainable from an environmental, social and economic point of view. The Strategy also underlines the importance of creating a circular economy as an integral part of the production, use and re-use of batteries. Sustainable battery production and the re-use of batteries will be the two key driving forces in order to create a solid basis for the transition to climate-neutrality. The recovery, recycling and reuse of raw materials for battery production create value and business opportunities in the transition to a sustainable and circular economy. Recycling rare earth metals from used batteries is an important step to reduce the need for new raw materials, he states. Applying the circular economy principle, battery packs from electric vehicles, once they can no longer be used to store the energy needed to move vehicles economically, should be given further possibilities for reuse before recycling. One potential use for this is battery farms, or energy storage, as energy storage systems for solar power plants, other photovoltaic or other renewable energy generation installations, thus creating a second life cycle. With hundreds of electric buses to be put into service in the near future under the Green Bus Program, where the fate of the bus batteries beyond their useful lifecycle will also need to be addressed, the Green Bus Project Office is investigating the potential for a second lifecycle for batteries.

Charging infrastructure The manufacturing of electric vehicles is just one of the elements of e-mobility. As regards the Ministry’s plan to cover the country with a network of charging stations and related developments, the State Secretary explains that the Green Bus Project Office's first call for proposal of bus procurement, which will close soon, also supported the installation of charging infrastructure alongside the vehicles, an opportunity that all applicants took advantage of. In line with the principle of gradual replacement of up to 35% of the bus fleet in service in local public transport with electric buses, the first call for applications has been already announced by the

Green Bus Program Office. “In order to reduce the pollution from transport, the government tries to promote electromobility as much as possible. Under the support program launched in 2020, we support the appearance and use of low-cost electric buses, cars and electric bicycles with an increased amount of support. On our long journey to achieve climate-neutrality in the transport sector, we do not want to rely purely on battery-based e-mobility. The first hydrogen filling station has just been opened in Hungary. The National Hydrogen Strategy aims to increase the production of carbon-free – and during the transition process also low-carbon – hydrogen. The surplus hydrogen supply will be used in the transport sector mainly for heavy freight and in buses,” he says.

Working to achieve goals of sustainability Sustainability is one of the areas covered by the state secretariat Attila Steiner is heading. As for how much electro-mobility can contribute to achieving Hungarian and international Sustainable Development Goals, he highlights that in Hungary, the transport sector is responsible for one-fifth of all CO2 emissions, with road transport accounting for 98%. So, a very important element of the Action Plan is the greening of transport. “The Green Bus Program is a key part of this, but the individual decisions and choices of the population also play a significant role, which is why we encourage and support people to give priority to environmentally friendly transport as well. However, the social support for the 2050 climate neutrality target date is very high, which is well shown by the 92% support measured during the 2019 social consultation. We believe that at the local level, everyone can do something to contribute to a higher goal. Although the Union's greenhouse gas emissions account for less than 10% of global emissions, EU member states, including Hungary, are committed to taking real action that will have tangible results globally. Therefore, we hope that as Hungary sets a good example with its ambitious initiatives for other EU countries, so will Europe play a leading role among the continents,” the State Secretary concludes.

Vehicle manufacturing, one of the most important industries in Hungary, is also responding to the 'call of times' and turning to e-mobility. The State Secretary says the aim of the Green Bus Program he mentioned is to replace the bus fleet in public transport by stimulating domestic bus production (at least 60% Hungarian added value is expected by the end of the Program), reducing the average age of the buses in operation, the emission values as well as the maintenance and operating costs of bus transport, and improving the quality of travel services. The government will provide HUF 36 billion between 2020-2029 to municipalities and public transport operators in w w w . d t e u r o p e . c o m

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BEING SUSTAINABLE IS MANDATORY

way of future. Sustainability is a strategic priority for E.ON and we seek partners with whom we have common goals, such as reducing corporate ecological footprint. We are glad to see that many SMEs have the same vision and they are keen on operating in a sustainable way. They are not just customers for us, but partners. Furthermore, in some cases, the benefit of green transport is even higher than that of transport, itself: our partners’ clientele appreciates the environment friendly approach, thus rather choose e-cars than others.

A COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR CORPORATIONS THAT CARE ABOUT THE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Why did your customers choose e-cars? Is it a matter of prestige? ZSOLT JAMNICZKY Yes, prestige could be one of the reasons, but this topic is more sophisticated. As I mentioned, it could be a benefit for our clients to show their environment friendly operation, however, in some cases, their customers’ expectation is even more: green transport is the base and if any of the possible service providers does not meet this requirement, that company is out of the game. So, one must acknowledge that being sustainable is mandatory. Besides, e-cars are more cost efficient, e.g., it is exempt from car tax and company car tax. And, of course, commitment to the sustainable future could be one main reason.

How do the customers handle charging of their cars? ZSOLT JAMNICZKY Well, we can say our customers are very conscious regarding this question. On the one hand, they have a station installed at home or at their company premises powered by E.ON and on the other hand, they can choose one of our public stations for an exclusive discounted price. In order to use E.ON’s charging stations, once our customers download our DrivE.ON application, they have the opportunity to check whether the station is available or when the charger will be ready to use again. If, for convenience, you do not prefer to use the public network, we offer the installation of a charging station at your home or at your company. From planning to execution and maintenance, everything is taken care of by us.

ZSOLT JAMNICZKY Our major strength is the method, how we meet customer demands. We have solid, international background, we are committed to our customers and we offer a transparent, high quality e-mobility service that is in our DNA. We provide complex, flexible solutions, however, every solution is tailored to the individual client requirements. Besides, our clients do not have to worry about maintenance or insurance, since it is included by the monthly fee and a dedicated customer support representative takes care of all matters. I can honestly say that we make the administration process very comfortable. Additionally, if a company is looking for a sustainable e-fleet, we are the ideal partner. Our e-stations use electricity from green sources, with almost 160 locations available in Hungary. If you ever felt that the lack of infrastructure is the obstacle for having an e-car, we have good news for you: great infrastructure and a wide range of e-cars are waiting for you, you just have to pick one and start driving green!

If we look at your customers, what companies are choosing E.ON as an e-fleet service provider? ZSOLT JAMNICZKY We have a wide range of clients and we are proud of offering great service for several types of industries and customers. At the moment, SMEs and municipalities make up most of our clientele. In terms of their activities, it is hospitality, logistics, maintenance, food supply that should be highlighted.

What is the purpose of their electric car use? ZSOLT JAMNICZKY During the daily operation of our

clients, e-cars secure cost efficient, eco-friendly transport, it’s green, innovative and basically, the

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More than a hundred satisfied corporate e-fleet clients have driven over 3,000,000 kilometers without a single drop of gasoline. If we calculated with an average 99 g/km CO2 emission this would spare almost 300 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Ten loaded trucks could deliver these 300 tons! Sounds promising, but Zsolt Jamniczky, member of the Board of E.ON Hungária Group says this is only the beginning; there is still room for further e-fleet expansion!

ÁRPÁD KURUCZ

What do you think is the key to E.ON’s e-fleet success?

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Creative Energy & Materials Solution Leader Battery is the key to sustainable innovation in automobiles

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e-mobility

SWITCHING TO AN ELECTRIC CAR – IT WON'T BE A SHOCK QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGARDING ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Many people are clearly thinking about making their next car or one of their family car purchase electric. Electric cars are not the answer for everyone, but there are reassuring answers to many of the concerns.

At the moment they are more expensive to buy than petrol or diesel cars, although their premiums are definitely reduced. Since electric cars do not need to change gear, their prices are comparable to those of automatic cars. The price premium is also influenced by the equipment: electric cars often come with more factory-installed options as standard equipment. The main advantage of ownership is the cost saving of two liters of petrol per 100 kms and significantly cheaper servicing.

But there is little selection… A few years ago, those thinking about an electric car faced a real shortage of choice. Now, however, there are electric alternatives in most categories, from city minis to premium products and SUVs to vans. For example, the Volkswagen ID.3 and Škoda Enyaq have been launched, the VW ID.4 SUV is on the way, and Audi has launched the Q4 E-tron and Q4 Sportback E-tron.

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There are currently over 1,300 public charging points for electric cars in Hungary, and the network is expanding. Chargers can also be used in public areas of towns and cities and in supermarket car parks by downloading phone apps. For longer journeys, you can also use the chargers at motorway service stations or take a short detour to the shopping centers around town. The 338-strong Ionity network of filling stations currently being developed along Europe's motorway network is the fastest, though not the cheapest. With the standard CCS connector, the VW ID.3 can recharge its battery with 100-125 kilowatts of electricity, the Audi E-tron can recharge up to 150 kW peak, and the Audi RS E-tron GT up to 270 kW. So, forced breaks are reduced to half an hour and range is noticeably improved. In normal traffic, the ID.3 Volkswagens with different battery capacities have a real-world range of 230-390 kms between two recharges, while driving economically can achieve 330-550 kms according to the official WLTP test.

Will I have to replace the battery for millions?

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Are electric cars too expensive?

Where do I charge the battery?

At 20 kWh/100 kms and 15,000 kms per year, an electric car requires 3,000 kWh of electricity. At present, there are about 13,500 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) with green plates in Hungary, with negligible electricity demand at system level. If their number were to increase to 200,000, their demand would account for about 1.3% of the 47 terawatt-hours of annual domestic electricity consumption. If, magically, there were two million electric cars running in the country, half of the 3,920,000 cars in the domestic car fleet, their charging would require 13% of domestic electricity use. The key to serving electric car drivers is to ensure that cars do not charge at the same time and use excess electricity at night, during the valley season, which can be achieved through adequate regulation and electricity tariffs.

The most important (and most expensive) component of an electric car is the high-voltage battery. The battery packs of advanced electric cars such as Audi, SEAT, Škoda, Volkswagen and later Ford models based on the Modular Electric

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The most frequent question is ‘Will an electric car suit me?’ and the answer is: if you don't regularly drive hundreds of kilometers, yes. European citizens drive an average of 50 kilometers a day, including regional representatives, taxi drivers and couriers. For commuting to work within the region or to be used as a second or third car for the family, an electric car is often the optimal solution if charging is available at home or at work.

Will there be enough power if many of us switch to electric cars?

Building Block (MEB) are liquid-cooled. By cooling and heating the cells, the temperature can be kept in a range of 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, which is favorable for their lifetime. The voltage of each cell is constantly monitored by the car to prevent major differences that cause degradation (ageing, capacity loss). The battery is not a huge unit, and by arranging the cells in modules, any repairs and replacements cost proportionately less. The drive battery in electric cars is covered by a reassuring warranty, in most cases for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometers as in the case of the Audi E-tron or the Volkswagen ID.3. The VW Group designs its electric cars to operate between -30 and +50 degrees Celsius, far from the extremes of the winters and summers in Hungary. Battery life can also be extended by keeping the charge in the 20-80% range instead of repeated full discharges and constant trickle charging, and by preferring slower, AC charging for everyday use, leaving DC charging for longer journeys.

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Boost your business with E.ON E-Fleet!

We have the solution. Choose the electric car that suits your business profile!

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e-mobility

DRIVING DOWN THE COSTS ELECTRIC VEHICLES WILL BE CHEAPER THAN PETROL CARS IN ALL SEGMENTS BY 2027, ANALYSIS FINDS Electric cars and vans will be cheaper to make than fossil-fuel vehicles in every light vehicle segment across Europe from 2027 at the latest, according to a new BloombergNEF study commissioned by Transport & Environment (T&E).

Electric sedans (C and D segments) and SUVs will be as cheap to produce as petrol vehicles from 2026, while small cars (B segment) will follow in

and Emobility at Transport & Environment, pointed out, “electric vehicles will be a reality for all new buyers within six years. They will be cheaper than combustion engines for everyone, from the man with a van in Berlin to the family living in the Romanian countryside. Electric vehicles are not only better for the climate and Europe’s industrial leadership, but for the economy too.” BNEF has also found that light electric vans will be cheaper than diesel vans from 2025, and heavy electric vans from 2026. But today, e-vans account for just 2% of sales because of weak emissions standards that fail to stimulate manufacturers to

invest in their supply. T&E said European Union lawmakers will need to set van-makers challenging CO2 targets, alongside dedicated e-van sales quotas, to increase investment and the number of electric models on the market.

EU commitment needed Battery electric cars and vans could reach 100% of new sales by 2035, even in southern and eastern Europe, if lawmakers increase vehicle CO2 targets and ramp up other policies to stimulate the market such as a faster roll-out of charging points. If left to the market without strong additional policies, battery electric cars will reach only an 85% market share, and e-vans just 83%, in the EU by 2035 – missing Europe’s goal to decarbonize by 2050. According to Julia Poliscanova, “with the right policies, battery electric cars and vans can reach 100% of sales by 2035 in western, southern and even eastern Europe. The EU can set an end date in 2035 in the certainty that the market is ready. New polluting vehicles shouldn’t be sold for any longer than necessary.” The EU Commission should set an end date for fossil-fuel car sales in June, when it will propose tightening the bloc’s car CO2 targets, T&E said. Last month, 27 major European companies called on EU lawmakers to set 2035 as the end date for selling new combustion engine cars and vans. A recent poll showed 63% of urban residents in Europe support a ban after 2030. At least seven carmakers and ten European countries have announced plans to phase out conventional cars. But, in the absence of an EU commitment, these deadlines remain either voluntary or uncertain as to their enforceability.

E-FUELS OFFER CLEAN FUTURE FOR SHIPPING AND AVIATION

The EU should promote the use of green synthetic fuels, or e-fuels, by ships and planes as part of its upcoming maritime and aviation fuel laws, environmental groups have told the European Commission. The FuelEU Maritime and ReFuelEU initiatives will require ships carrying EU trade and aircraft fueling in Europe to progressively switch to sustainable alternative fuels. In a letter published today, 17 green organizations, including Transport & Environment (T&E) and Green Transition Denmark, say e-fuels offer enormous economic and employment opportunities. Biofuels and natural gas, on the other hand, do not offer a sustainable alternative for shipping and should be excluded, the groups say. Support should also not be given to crop-based biofuels in planes, which would emit more than the fossil fuels they replace while there will not be enough advanced biofuels. Instead, lawmakers must send a clear signal to potential investors to focus on e-fuels made with additional renewable electricity and, whenever CO2 is required, direct air capture (DAC), the letter states. According to Delphine Gozillon, shipping policy officer at T&E, “E-fuels offer a clean future for the shipping and aviation sectors, but also the fuels industry. The EU must give them the investment certainty they need to flourish by requiring all ships carrying EU trade and aircraft fueling in Europe to progressively make the switch.” Promoting e-fuels can drive investment and create employment in areas such as hydrogen production, European shipbuilding and technology manufacturing, as well as energy transport infrastructure and R&D, the letter states. Europe’s renewable electricity potential is sufficient to meet demand from ships and planes, recent research shows, but Europe must make the right policy decisions in 2021 to incentivize the uptake of these green fuels.

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Driving down production costs

2027, BNEF projects. It finds that falling battery costs – new battery prices will fall 58% by 2030 (compared to 2020), rapidly reducing electric vehicle costs, according to the report –, new vehicle architectures and dedicated production lines for electric vehicles will make them cheaper to buy, on average, even before subsidies. But the early build-up of EV production and sales will be crucial to drive down costs and generate consumer buy-in for further adoption in the future, BloombergNEF found. Only stricter CO2 targets for vehicle-makers in the 2020s, including a new 2027 target, can ensure that, T&E said. As Julia Poliscanova, Senior Director, Vehicles

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The research found that battery electric vehicles could reach 100% of new sales across the European Union by 2035 – if lawmakers introduce measures like tighter vehicle CO2 targets and strong support for charging infrastructure. Transport & Environment called on the EU to tighten emissions targets in the 2020s and set 2035 as the end date for selling new polluting vehicles.

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LUXURY AND SUSTAINABILITY - MERCEDES-EQ MERCEDES-BENZ HAS BEEN WORKING FOR DECADES TO MEET SUSTAINABILITY REQUIREMENTS As the inventor of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz also takes responsibility for the future of mobility. Customers of Mercedes-Benz traditionally expect safe, comfortable and dynamic cars in premium quality. However, environmentally friendly solutions are more important than ever. Sustainability is now an integral part of the business strategy of Mercedes-Benz.

With that, Mercedes-Benz aims to offer a carbon neutral new car fleet by 2039. By 2030, the half of sold Mercedes-Benz vehicles will be fully electric or plug-in hybrid models.

Luxury and electromobility – Mercedes-EQ Luxury has always been the soul of MercedesBenz. The true luxury experience is now electric, digital and sustainable thanks to the MercedesEQ sub-brand. Electromobility has become a symbol of environmental awareness, climate protection and sustainable development. The Mercedes-EQ subbrand has entered the world of electromobility

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The all-new EQS marks a major milestone on the road to carbon neutrality as the flagship of the brand’s electric fleet. The world's first electric vehicle in the luxury class built on a new platform designed specifically for electric vehicles. The EQS, built in a fully carbon-neutral way, is the world's most aerodynamic production car. It features artificial intelligence and exceptional use of materials to enjoy the journey up to 770 kilometers on a single charge. The EQS marks the launch of a new generation of batteries also with significantly higher energy density. The innovative battery management software, developed in-house, allows updates

The new EQA – electric compact for the new generation Representing progressive luxury, the EQA is part of the brand’s electric fleet, combining the stunning character of the popular GLA model with efficient electric drive. The driver is supported by intelligent driver assistance systems in many areas, such as accident avoidance, efficient operating strategy and navigation with electric intelligence, which takes into account the specificities of electric drive. In addition, a host of exceptional Mercedes-Benz features can be found in the dynamic compact model, from ENERGIZING Comfort to the intuitive MBUX (MercedesBenz User Experience) infotainment system. The EQA has a driving range of up to 426 kilometers on a single charge.

Ambition 2039 – the path to the CO2-neutral mobility of the future at Mercedes-Benz

with its progressive, high-tech models built on the dedicated Electric Vehicle Architecture. The first member of the all-electric Mercedes EQ family was the EQC, launched in 2018. In 2021 and 2022, a total of eight models will be added to the range of electric models, from the EQA – representing the compact models – to the EQS, the brand's flagship.

over the air (OTA). In this way, the energy management system remains up to date throughout the life cycle. As an exceptionally intelligent vehicle, the EQS has up to 350 sensors, depending on the equipment. These record distances, speeds and accelerations, lighting conditions, precipitation and temperatures, seat occupancy as well as the driver's blink of an eye or the passengers' speech. This wealth of information is processed by control units that – controlled by algorithms – make decisions at lightning speed. The new EQS can expand its capabilities based on new experiences, because it is highly capable of learning thanks to artificial intelligence (AI).

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Mercedes-Benz has been working for decades to meet sustainability requirements. The process started as early as 1954 with the 300 SL, the first series production vehicle with a four-stroke engine to use petrol direct injection. This was followed by the first test vehicles to be powered by hydrogen in 1975 and by the first electric-powered passenger car test vehicles based on an E-Class estate in 1982.

The new EQS – a car for modern luxury and sustainability

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e-mobility

SAMSUNG SDI FOR A GREEN FUTURE

THE COMPANY FOCUSES ON YOUNGER GENERATIONS AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

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SAMSUNG SDI

Samsung SDI today Along with the footmarks of Samsung SDI, starting from Vacuum Tubes in 1970, superlarge PDP, high-tech CRTs and to Digital displays, today, Samsung SDI is the Creative Leader of Technology and Market on the Foundation of Change and Innovation. The company creates rechargeable batteries for IT industry, automobiles and energy storage systems (ESS), as well as cutting-edge materials used to produce semiconductors, displays, etc. As a top-class company, Samsung SDI is providing total solution of materials and energy and creating the future green technologies. These technologies are blooming in Göd, in the heart of Hungary. Samsung SDI Hungary was reestablished in 2016 and mass production of Li-Ion battery for automobiles has started in 2018. The battery is key to sustainable innovation in automobiles, this industry will undoubtedly grow in the upcoming years. As one of the biggest investors in Hungary, Samsung SDI was w w w . d t e u r o p e . c o m

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the first prominent role-player in the domestic electro-mobility industry, putting this plant on the world map through their investment decision, and also drawing the attention of other significant automotive suppliers to Hungary, who have also established local companies here in the past years. Today, the production and expansion are taking place at the same time. Samsung SDI is at the forefront of the effort to create energy and cuttingedge materials that enrich the quality of life around the world.

The green future As Samsung SDI’s products contribute to the spread of environmentally friendly transport and sustainable mobility, the company places great emphasis on protecting the environment for future generations and focusing on sustainable solutions. Samsung SDI has sought to achieve the goals of eco-value by developing greener products, strengthening ecofriendly cooperation with suppliers, and developing manufacturing D I P L O M A C Y

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processes that can cause minimal impact to the environment. The company pursues life cycle thinking in the whole process of designing environment-friendly products, which embodies product planning, development, and design phases. Though Samsung SDI is not an end-product maker, it considers end-users’ product use and disposal when making products. Additionally, Samsung SDI built a computing system that can automatically estimate Ecoprofile in the mass production.

Samsung SDI against deep-sea mining Samsung SDI is among the first global companies to have signed up to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) call for a moratorium on deep-sea mining. South Korea's Samsung SDI is the first battery maker to participate in WWF's initiative. This is a big step forward for the company, because the metals needed to make batteries can be extracted from the seabed. Samsung SDI commits not to source any minerals from the seabed, to 2 0 2 1

exclude such minerals from their supply chains, and not to finance deep seabed mining activities.

Focusing on people Under Samsung SDI’s CEO banner, “The first principle of management is the safe environment,” the company continuously builds eco-friendly and safe workplaces. The pandemic has brought a lot of change to the company as well, but all along, the number one priority has been to make and feel people safe. Samsung SDI made exemplary decisions on a daily basis for the benefit of its employees. When vaccines appeared, Samsung SDI was among the first companies that indicated the intention to provide vaccination for employees. Today, all employees can get the vaccine within the company. As the company is creating future technologies and the future is in the hand of the younger generation, Samsung SDI’s mission is to share its capabilities with the new generation to pursue their

dreams and grow into the future energy together. The company is proud to be involved in educating people from primary school to university. As one of the most important corporate value is talent support, the company has launched numerous trainings, helping young generations to complete their studies and create a vision for them that points in one direction: the green future. This year, Samsung SDI supports engineering students at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), providing professional knowledge and support so that they can create their own electric car. Samsung SDI is proud to participate in this collaboration as the students represent the company’s vision. As an eco-friendly energy company, Samsung SDI will continue its efforts to create safe, healthy, educative, and environmentally friendly working environment. Many career opportunities are provided for all who would like to grab the future with a world-class company.

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e-mobility partially electric drive were registered than in the same period last year. However, the Ipsos survey shows that while 86% of respondents would consider buying an electric car, a third of them would expect a range of over 500 kilometers from these vehicles, which is only possible with the top end of the current range, and the average competitor is still a long way off. This would require at least 90-100kW batteries in mid-range cars, which Dénes Novotny sees a realistic chance of achieving in two to three years. The perceived scarcity of charging facilities is also holding back many, 58% of respondents. Public charging stations with a capacity of 350kW will be needed to avoid having to wait for an hour to recharge the car. “These can bring an electric vehicle to road-ready status in a time comparable to conventional refueling. However, in order to cost-effectively operate one or more charging stations of this capacity on a single site, a largecapacity energy storage facility is needed," he warns, adding that it is worth building charging stations that are tailored to the needs of the users, as currently it is the people who have to adapt to the infrastructure.

Charged while stationary

FOR SMART CHARGING

AFTER THE GREEN REVOLUTION, ELECTRIC CARS ARE TURNING TOWARDS THE ENERGY REVOLUTION At the moment, it is the positive environmental impacts associated with the technology that are the main reason why electric cars are seen so positively in Hungary. However, changes in energy technology, including energy storage, and their price-reducing effects could bring about a real turnaround in use.

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business at ALTEO, a new generation energy provider. However, he believes that the global revolution in electricity and energy storage will greatly improve the prospects for electric cars. More and more household and garden appliances, scooters and bicycles are being fitted with batteries, increasing both usability and user convenience, but the most visible area of rapid change is undoubtedly the automotive market. While vehicle sales in Europe fell by a fifth last year compared to 2019, the electric car market grew by 137%.

Proper infrastructure needed Hungary is no exception to the trend: in the first three months of this year, 25.5% more green license plates issued for cars with fully or

Growing electric car market

DÁVID HARANGOZÓ

This is at least part of the reason why many people see electric cars as a savior: 82% of respondents (who own a car) to an Ipsos poll conducted in February 2021 said that electric cars reduce local air pollution, and 74% agreed that they are less harmful to the environment than conventional cars. "Being environmentally friendly does not in itself make a product sellable and successful," says Dénes Novotny, head of the electric mobility

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It is a truism that the transport sector, which is still dominated by fossil fuels, is one of the most serious contributors to the climate crisis. Transport accounts for more than a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions in EU member states, with cars accounting for over 60% of these discharges. Emissions from cars are also a key factor in poor urban air quality in Hungary, while a quarter of the country’s energy consumption is spent on transport.

However, one of the biggest advantages of electrically charged vehicles compared to petrol and diesel vehicles is that they can be charged while the vehicle is stationary. More and more charging stations are being installed in houses, apartment blocks and company premises, providing convenient and cost-effective ’refueling’. "In fact, neither car parks nor office buildings were originally designed to provide the possibility of charging dozens of electric cars in parallel, but the parking time of vehicles is the perfect time for charging," Dénes Novotny explains. Recently, ALTEO installed a system in an office building in Budapest that continuously monitors the intime electricity demand of the entire facility and adjusts the charging of the vehicles accordingly, so as not to cause any disruption to the operation of the office building. A similar solution is offered for condominiums and detached houses: the power of charging electric cars is dynamically increased when washing machines and kitchen appliances are no longer running – therefore, avoiding the often costly need to extend the power capacity of the grid. According to Dénes Novotny, the development of the charging infrastructure will be accompanied by a turnaround in the customer acceptance of electric cars. "The coming-on stream of battery factories could bring a rapid and spectacular drop in prices, which could also lead to a turning point in the uptake of electric vehicles in Hungary, even before 2025," he concludes.

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Ë % 0 10

RI T C E

NEW CITROËN Ë-C4 100% ËLECTRIC OPEN TO THE FUTURE!

Up to 350 km range (according to WLTP) Fast charge in 30 minutes up to 80% charge ALSO AVAILABLE IN PETROL OR DIESEL VERSIONS! Image is for illustration purposes only. Please contact our colleagues for details. Citroën ë-C4 mixed consumption according to WLTP standard:160–168 Wh/km, CO2-emissions: 0 g/km.

www.fabianauto.hu | & | CITROËN FÁBIÁN SZÉKESFEHÉRVÁR | 8000 Székesfehérvár, Budai út 175. | phone: +36 22 303 406

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diplomacy

NEW AMBASSADORS

Evgeny Arnoldovich Stanislavov (RUSSIAN FEDERATION) was born in 1960. Starting his diplomatic career in 1983, he has held various positions in his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs since. In 2000–2004, he worked at the Permanent Mission of Russia to the United Nations (in New York City) as a senior advisory diplomat. From 2005 to 2010, he was advisor to the UNICEF Branch for Central and Eastern Europe and CIS (in Geneva, Switzerland). Between 2010 and 2014, he acted as Senior Advisor to the UN and UNICEF Multilateral Affairs Division (in New York City). Then, from 2014 to 2021, he was Head of the Department of Economic Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in Moscow.

Christo Stefanov Polendakov (BULGARIA) was born in 1970. He conducted studies in the International School in Tehran, Iran and received an M.A. degree at the State Institute for International Relations in Moscow, Russia. He joined his country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1994 and has been serving his country mostly at foreign posts in the past 25 years, first in the Norwegian capital, Oslo (1996-1999), followed by work of representation at the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and other international organizations with headquarters in Vienna, Austria. Between 2015 and 2019, he was Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Four new ambassadors accredited to Hungary presented their credentials to Hungarian President János Áder at the Sándor Palace in the Buda Castle in April.

Juan Carlos Ojeda Viglione

Komi Bayédze Dagoh (TOGO) was born in 1956. He received an M.A. degree in law at the University of Benin in Lomé in 1982, followed by graduation from the International Institute of Public Administration (IIAP) in Paris in 1987 and received a Degree of Specialized Studies in Diplomacy from the University of Paris-Sud, Paris the same year. He began working for his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in 1983. In 1988-1990, he worked as secretary at the Embassy of Togo in Brussels, Belgium. Following different position at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in Lomé, he was appointed in 2017as his country’s Ambassador in Berlin, Germany where he also resides as Ambassador to Hungary.

(URUGUAY) was born in 1958. Residing in Vienna, he is also the main representative of his country in Austria and Permanent Representative to several International Organizations in Vienna like the IAEA) or the UNIDO, among others. He has a Degree in Diplomacy from the Universidad de la Republica (Montevideo, Uruguay) where he also studied law. He joined the Foreign Service of his country as Third Secretary in 1982. His first foreign posting was in Cairo, Egypt (1985-1991). Later, he also served in various positions in Japan, the Dominican Republic and Israel. Between 2011 and 2016, he was Ambassador to Iran while also accredited to Pakistan and Armenia.

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Account No: Unicredit Bank 10918001-00000106-89200006 Please, invoice me at the address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................................................ Date:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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education

HAPPY KIDS, A SPECIAL PLACE IN THE EXPAT COMMUNITY INTERNATIONAL KINDERGARTEN MANAGES CHILDREN AND PARENTS ON INDIVIDUAL BASIS DURING THE PANDEMIC

The Hungarian capital has a sizeable expatriate community and those with a small child are likely to be familiar with Happy Kids International Kindergarten and Nursery that provides a multicultural learning environment for children from various countries. know what measures we would have to take but we knew that we had to do something because we couldn't just send the children home,” the kindergarten’s Business Director, Peter Jones recalls to Diplomacy&Trade.

Focus on individual development A solution was found soon as the teachers were able to quickly adapt and put together a digital online program to occupy the children for at least some of the day. It was obviously shocking for the teachers as they had to do something very different from what they had been doing but even more shocking and hard for the children aged 1.5-7

DÁVID HARANGOZÓ, ILDIKÓ GYŐRI

Happy Kids is a hugely popular and well-known kindergarten that has been at the heart of Budapest’s international education scene for more than 20 years, giving it a strong claim to being Budapest’s longest-standing English language international kindergarten. 2020 was to be the institution’s 20th anniversary ‘happy year’ but the new coronavirus thought otherwise. “It was a shock basically because none of us had been in a position where we just had to close down because of the pandemic. And everybody basically just sort of ran for the hills, because we didn't know how long it's going to last, we didn't

years cared for at Happy Kids. “We tried to cope with the situation by handling the children and parents on an individual basis as much as possible. One of the key features of our kindergarten is the focus on individual development, personal growth, personal education and personal development. We have children from 20+ different nationalities with all sorts of levels of English. So, every child needs to have a unique level of attention and focus. This principle has not changed with the pandemic but obviously, it was very, very hard for this age group. In most cases, the parents need to accompany the child or need to sit by the child during a session. Otherwise, they lose focus, they lose their concentration, they might start to wander off and want to do something else. Some of the older children learn in this new environment very quickly, they virtually grow up with a laptop in their pocket or in their hands,” he adds. The kindergarten had to close down completely between the middle of March and the middle of May. As a responsible institution, they decided to extend the school year from the middle of June to the end of July to cover the missing period without charge – a gesture well received by the parents.

teaches the child to be more open and more willing to accept children from other skin colors, other races, other religions. Another benefit in favor of Happy Kids is the diversity of programs that they offer: a wide range of afternoon activities, which include Twinkle Toes Ballet, pop dance, judo, chess and even robotics, a very interesting subject for the children. As regards the advantages that this now 21 years old institution means for the business community, itself in the Hungarian capital, Peter Jones notes that “we often have very good, very positive feedback from parents, from families who came to Happy Kids years ago. I think in almost all cases, the benefits to the child include learning English and being part of a multicultural, international environment. Those are the qualities that they carry with them for the rest of their life. When they go to school, of course, they have a great advantage, and they already speak quite good English. And that will help them in their future schooling as well.”

Diversity of programs

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Looking at the pictures on the Happy Kids website, what comes to mind as a definitely positive feature is the multicultural environment these children are exposed to – something that parents appreciate, too. The Business Director agrees that the internationality of this little community of children from this many countries and nationalities is very important because it w w w . d t e u r o p e . c o m

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witty leaks WITTY

LE A K S

IN THIS SERIES, DIPLOMATS SHARE PERSONAL ACCOUNTS OF THEIR EXPERIENCES ON “EXCURSIONS” into Hungarian culture, art, gastronomy & scenery.

TOKAJ AND THE FRENCH CONNECTION

in my soul the divine sparkles of spirit and cheerfulness.” It was served at receptions of the Encyclopaedics with Diderot, the visionaries with Balzac, the realists with Flaubert. Napoleon III, the French Emperor used to order 30 to 40 barrels of Tokaj per year until the end of his reign.

TOKAJ WINE – ANOTHER SYMBOL OF FRENCH-HUNGARIAN FRIENDSHIP

The French connection Alsace’s Pinot Gris has long been considered a parent to Tokaj wine. This origin was supposed to be illustrated by Lazare de Schwendi’s statute (servitor to Charles Quint and Maximilien II) in Colmar (north-eastern France), showing him with a wine stoke in his hand, having brought from his travels the secret of the famous Hungarian wine. Pinot Gris then lost the right to use the name ‘Tokaj’, which became reserved to the Hungarian wine. Other links also relate us to the Tokaj region: professor Béla Kovács, who died recently at 103 years of age, an iconic figure of Frenchteaching in Hungary, was born in Tolcsva, a small village in north-east Hungary. The 100-year-old teacher is a legend in Hungary. He devoted his life to teaching our language and to promote French-Hungarian relationships. I had the chance to meet several times with him and to have long discussions in his perfect French, about the history of our two countries and his memories. At his request, I visited the village of Tolcsva, where I met with the mayor, who just decided with his counterpart in the town of Sauternes (in southwestern France) to pair their two settlements.

BY THE AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE, PASCALE ANDRÉANI

On October 24 last year, I was accepted as friend into ‘The Brotherhood of Knights of Wine of Tokaj’ (or Confrérie de Tokaj), the professional and friendly association for the promotion of wine from that region. This is for me a telling symbol of the close relationship between our two countries, first because some of the Tokaj wine producers in Hungary are now French, and also because we have a long relationship in that field.

The King of Wines

The Tokaj wine’s reputation outlived the Roi Soleil’s (Sun King’s) death in 1715 and the following centuries. As Voltaire described it, “to this amber colored drink, with its bright colors,

which weaves the golden threads of the mind, and lets shine the most spiritual words”, and referring to its benefits, “it gives vigor to the smallest fiber of my brain and rekindles deep

The alliance between two great wines, one more symbol of the FrenchHungarian friendship!

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EMBASSY OF FRANCE

When Spain’s’ war of succession was pitting France and Spain against the Hapsburgs, the United Provinces and England, and an insurrection burst out in Hungary in 1703, the difficulties in supplying Porto wine favored the arrival of a new alcoholic product on European tables. Ferenc Rákóczi II, prince of Transylvania, later exiled to France, brought to Louis XIV’s court the Tokaj wine, which the French king appreciated a lot and called it “the wine of kings and the king of wines” (Vinum regum, rex vinorum).

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what's on MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS READY TO WELCOME VISITORS AGAIN IN GYÖRGY RÁTH VILLA FROM MAY 4, GYÖRGY RÁTH VILLA

Due to the COVID-19 restrictions György Ráth Villa, just as a lot of other museums and galleries, had to close its doors. Museum of Applied Arts however is ready to open it again from early May, and they are welcoming visitors not just with their well-knowned exhibiton Our Secession, but with the new, temporary show In Circulation. The latter is part of a series which was launched by the Contemporary Design Department of the Museum of Applied Arts. Because the main building on Üllői út had to be closed during its prestigious renovation, the Museum tries to keep their unique pieces avaible in other ways. They asked contemporary designers to choose favorite pieces from the museum and create something new and exciting corresponding to their favorite ones in the museum, and these new pieces take part in further exhibitions. A film presenting the process of creative thinking is also part of the show. This year the 4th edition of the program is inviting the Czech Dechem Studio, which is worldreknowned for their glass designs. Designers Michaela Tomiskova and Jakub Jand’ourek are connecting in life and work and have been acknowledged by A-lined festivals and institutes. They choose the Madame Bovary-book from the 1930’s as their favorite so their reflections are in continuous dialog with this piece. Visitors can get a closer look at working with a miraculous material, called lithyalin glass.

GALLERY WEEKEND BUDAPEST JUNE 18-20, IN 14 GALLERIES

The contemporary art festival Gallery Weekend Budapest, organised by the Association of Hungarian Contemporary Art Galleries, will be held in the end of June. This Gallery Weekend Budapest will offer the best of contemporary art, guiding audience through outstanding exhibitions in 14 galleries. The Gallery Weekend was launched in 2014 by the Association of Hungarian Contemporary Art Galleries, and now it’s organised in many cities worldwide (in Brussel, Chicago, Dublin, Havanna, Kaunas, Mexico City, Paris, Barcelona, Warsaw, Berlin, Beijing, Tel-Aviv, Antwerpen, and for the first time, in London). The 7th edition of the art festival in Budapest will take place in 14 contemporary art galleries in the Hungarian capital (acb, Erika Deák, Einspach Fine Arts & Photography, Glassyard Gallery, INDA, Kálmán Makláry Fine Arts, Kisterem, Knoll Budapest, MissionArt, Molnár Ani, MyMuseum, TOBE, Várfok and VILTIN), with guided tours. All of the programs will be free of charge.

www.imm.hu

DESIGN WITHOUT BORDERS FROM MAY 5, ONLINE

Since it has started 16 years ago, Design Without Borders (DWB) is one of the region’s most important design exhibition, offering authors and visitors a productive interaction with other parts of the design industry. In 2020 they showcased works from more than 140 creators and from 14 countries in Kiscelli Múzeum. Some of the pieces would have been transferred into Vienna and Bratislava this year, but this plan had to be cancelled because of the pandemic. However, the wide range of furniture, textile and jewelry becomes literally an exhibition without borders in 2021. DWB VLOG is available from May 7 and showcases all the pieces in short and inspiring videos. So, if we couldn’t make it happen to visit the exhibition since it’s opening last year, we can do it now really without borders in this exciting online world, connecting to the website and YouTubechannel of DWB. The exhibition features pieces of furniture, home accessories, carpets and soft furnishings, contemporary jewelry, accompanied by films about the projects. Creators are thinking and discussing eco-friendly and sustainable solutions, while they highlight the role of civil society in shaping society as a whole. They also present the cultural and creative connections within gastronomy.

FRISS HÚS BUDAPEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

MAY 27 – JUNE 2, TOLDI CINEMA BUDAPEST AND SZENTENDRE

The 9th edition of Friss Hús (‘Fresh Meat’) Budapest International Short Film Festival is awaiting film lovers in Toldi cinema and with open-air places in Szentendre from May 27 to June 2. Never in the festival’s history have been so many films in the international section, which will be divided into 5 topics with 27 international productions, while the Hungarian section is preparing 31 short films to showcase. Some of the Hungarian filmmakers already owning a Friss Hús award are back with their latest films, while authors with international awards will be also presented with exciting productions. The authors are competing for the best short film award and the jury’s special award in the international section, while the audience can also vote for their favorite international production. Friss Hús Budapest International Short Film Festival presents the newest Hungarian and international short films for movie fans and creates a professional forum for filmmakers waiting for their first feedback from the larger audience. Workshops, discussions and special film industry events accompany the festival every year. Kristóf Deák’s short film Sing! was also the festival’s favorite before it gained the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film.

design-without-borders.eu

frisshusbudapest.com

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ISTVÁN SZÉCSI, FRISS HÚS BUDAPEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL, KRISTINA HRABĚTOVÁ, PÉTER LACZKÓ

galleryweekendbudapest.com

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awards

CHARITY AND CSR SERVICES RECOGNIZED BEST OF BUDAPEST & HUNGARY AWARDS FOR ACHIEVEMENTS IN GASTRO ENTREPRENEUR AND HELPING HANDS CATEGORIES A return to business as usual is still very much a future thought even as we restart the hospitality industry in Hungary. The year 2020 was very painful for all and, of course, caused cancellation of all familiar activities. We had to look deep and think how to survive this unprecedented event. Best of Budapest & Hungary wanted to highlight two symbolic achievements made even in these painful times. Tourism and hospitality had been decimated by COVID-19 restrictions, however, talented entrepreneurs in the industry fought to keep their companies alive, while a huge part of the industry found motivation in charity and CSR services. This is why Best of Budapest & Hungary decided to keep only two categories for this year’s award.

events would be cancelled, the owner of Pasztell Restaurant and Albatros Party Service kept himself closed up at home for three days. However, after a few days, he reacted quickly and changed his business model to food delivery. He was

help people in need with clothes, cleaning and meals support. A significant number of hotels joined in the activity. Just to mention some of them, Accor Pannónia Hotels Zrt., Meininger Budapest Great Hall, Budapest Marriott Hotel and Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest all served delicious food to those in need. Dóra Anek (Director of Sales & Residence, Mamaison Hotels & Residences), Ildikó Dudás (Public Relations Director, Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest) and Kitti Zsiros-Varga (PR & Marketing Manager, Zeina Hotels) were there to represent the community of HotelHero when receiving the Best of Budapest & Hungary Award in 2021.

able to retain his employees during the COVID-19 period, while he also managed to organize some charity actions. Now, he delivers food from Pasztell Restaurant and started to welcome guests again.

Helping Hands Helping Hands is a newborn category of the Best of Budapest & Hungary award. This prize highlights achievements representing the most powerful CSR stories of the industry, involving as many people as is possible. This is why the very first award of Best of Budapest & Hungary’s Helping Hands category goes to HotelHero. This CSR Diplomacy-n-Trade.ai 1 2017. 02. 27. 11:22:30 activity called all the hotels in Hungary to

Gastro Entrepreneur of the Year In category of Gastro Entrepreneur of the Year, the Best of Budapest & Hungary award went to Attila Hegyi. Just after it became clear that the industry will face strict restrictions and all the public

DÁVID HARANGOZÓ

CMY

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wine

WORKING ORGANICALLY IN THE TOKAJ WINE REGION OUTSTANDING VOLCANIC TERROIR AND FURMINT ARE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ORGANIC CERTIFICATION IN TR WINES

Viticulture has to be tender and careful to earn the best quality from vine. Especially if we have a premium quality terroir which has gone down in history centuries ago – and this is what happened to Tokaj wine region. And if someone has the precious Furmint to get the best from the terroir, maybe they don’t want to wait for 20-30 years in vine plantation. Wanting the best for their plantations and their customers, TR Wines turned to organic viticulture. It’s May, and the new Furmint plantation at TR Wines turns three years old this Spring. ’Remember, the soul of the vine is the correct cordon shaping’, says Pál Szamosújvári, one of the owners of TR Wines. Focus on viticulture has always been a top priority at the winery since they arrived in the Tokaj wine region in 2013. Their objective was to convert the decadesold vine plantation into an organic vineyard, which they accomplished. The vineyard and the winery received organic certification in 2020. ”Organic viticulture means being in close contact with nature. Checking and monitoring the vineyard thoroughly and frequently during the vegetation cycle. You have to be vigilant because you have no other option but to

be preventive. Once a disease has struck, there is not a lot you can do. It’s all about respecting the ecosystem,” adds Anikó Kada, Pál Szamosújvári’s wife.

A well-functioning team needs qualified members Members of TR Wines are a group of friends with a passion for wine and viticulture. Eight years ago, they had a dream of taking their wine enthusiasm to a higher level. They picked Tokaj and the village of Tállya. When Anikó is not in the vineyards she is updating social media, managing administration, export, and marketing. Pál is the innovator, the source of new ideas, a strategic thinker who sets out the way forward, tells the team what to do and how – you get the impression that he is in possession of a crystal ball. Dénes Uliczki, the estate manager is good with people, gathering and managing them in the field even if it's 35 degrees on a summer morning. Also, he is the one frequenting the local wine-authorities, to get the necessary licenses. The co-owner, János Mátyásfalvi is also responsible for financial decisions.

Natural sweetness Over the last eight vintages, they have established their style, which is natural, easy-going, and organic. The dry Furmint reflects the freshness of the grape and minerality with playful residual sugar. They believe that Tokaj is about natural sweetness which they proudly present in their light and lively late harvest wines. Their dessert wine, the Szamorodni follows this easy-going style with exotic fruit flavors and matching acidity. The hit of 2019 was their natural and organic Pét-Nat, with refreshing peach and pear on the palate. At last year’s harvest they came up with something new: freshly pressed pure Furmint grape „must” which turned out to be very popular. It’s pasteurized to have a longer shelf life. It’s alcohol-free so the whole family can enjoy it.

History and quality

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TR WINES

Why Tokaj and Tállya? Tokaj has a long history and its wines have been internationally renowned for centuries. But what really matters is the underlying quality, the rock-solid foundation. The duality between an amazing volcanic terroir, with a topographically varied landscape and Furmint, a truly versatile grape variety. Together they elevate the region to a worldclass spot for winemaking. Within the terroir of Tállya TR Wines operates on a four-hectare plot in the Palota Vineyard, which is a unique segment with its sunnier, warmer, and drier microclimate. The soil at the top couldn’t be rockier. It’s the combination of andesite and rhyolite which gives their wines a specific minerality. w w w . d t e u r o p e . c o m

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