ISLAMABAD: Hungary’s Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Zoltan Varga has said that ties between Islamabad and Budapest were growing stronger, and expressed interest in exploring new areas of cooperation to further expand bilateral relations.

“Pakistan and Hungary have a longstanding bilateral relationship, which is growing across multiple sectors,” Dr Varga said at a reception hosted by the Hungarian embassy in collaboration with MOL Pakistan to mark Hungary’s National Day.

The event brought together diplomats, joint venture partners, and government representatives to commemorate the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and celebrate the enduring friendship between Hungary and Pakistan.

The ambassador highlighted ongoing cooperation in the energy and education sectors, adding that both countries were exploring further avenues of mutual interest.

Speaking on the occasion, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said: “Pakistan and Hungary share a friendship built on mutual respect and a desire to work together.

We appreciate the embassy of Hungary for organising this event, and we value the role of companies like MOL Pakistan, which contribute to our economy and communities while helping bring our two countries closer.”

Speaking on the occasion, the chief executive officer of MOL Pakistan said: “Celebrations such as national days strengthen understanding between people and nations, and we are pleased to play a part in bringing Hungarian heritage and traditions closer to our friends and partners in Pakistan.”

Ali Murtaza Abbas, regional vice president of MOL Group, added: “MOL views itself as a bridge, bringing Hungarian expertise and standards to Pakistan while highlighting Pakistan’s potential as a destination for investment and growth.”

The event, the organisers said, reflected the shared commitment of both nations to dialogue and cooperation. It also featured a showcase of Hungarian art and culture, including performances by Hungarian folk dancers who travelled from Hungary for the occasion.

MOL Pakistan, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hungary-based MOL Group, has been operating in Pakistan since 1999.

The company holds working interests in several exploration and production blocks, including the TAL and Margalla blocks.

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2026