A strong and successful Hungary can only be built on national, Christian and European traditions, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said after the Government signed an agreement with the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople on Tuesday.

Christian culture is the guiding principle of the history of the Hungarian nation, the Prime Minister said at the signing ceremony in Parliament.

DownloadPhoto: Gergely Botár

The Hungarian Government therefore considers it important to sign agreements with churches that have played an important role in Hungarian history and which represent values that Hungary will need in the 21st century, he stated.

The Orthodox Church has largely contributed to Hungary's intellectual and material growth, and has played an important role in the life, culture and education of minorities living in Hungary, he said.

Patriarch of Constantinople Bartholomew I said the agreement is an important milestone in the Patriarchate's relations with the Hungarian Government. He also appreciates the efforts the Government has made in order to strengthen Christian values in Europe.

(Prime Minister’s Office)