A memorandum of understanding was signed by the Hungarian Ministry of Interior and the United States Department of Energy on Friday in Budapest.

The document is a declaration of cooperation aimed at preventing the illegal trade of nuclear and radioactive substances. As part of the treaty, a van fitted with radiation detection equipment was donated to the Counter Terrorism Centre (TEK).

Ambassador of the United States of America to Hungary Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis said that Hungarian-American security cooperation is a true success story and is indeed a model for others to follow.  The United States has supported Hungary’s law enforcement efforts through equipment donations, training opportunities and by sharing best practices and know-how – she added.

In connection with the radiation detection van she said that through the use of this equipment, the TEK will be better able to protect Hungary from illicit radioactive material – and, by doing so, Hungary will be able to better contribute to the security of the entire region.

Minister of Interior Sándor Pintér also emphasized the importance of the diversified cooperation between the United States and Hungary.  According to the Minister, the cooperation serves the security of both countries and also provides opportunities for further development through the sharing of records, for instance.

The Minister thanked Ambassador Kounalakis, whose tenure as Ambassador to Hungary is slowly coming to an end, for her efforts in strengthening the relationship between the two countries, especially within the field of internal affairs.

(Ministry of Interior)