The citizens of Hungary today celebrated Saint Stephen’s Day.
Hungary has continued to demonstrate economic growth. It is one of the newest member countries of the European Union since 2004). The country gets nearly one third of all foreign direct investment flowing into Central Europe. Hungary enjoys strong trade, fiscal, monetary, investment, business, and labor freedoms, according to Wikipedia.
US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, speaking in Washington, DC, extended the congratulations of President Obama and the people of the United States, to the people of Hungary as they celebrate Saint Stephen’s Day.
“This June I visited Budapest to participate in the inauguration of the Lantos Institute and reaffirm the commitment of the United States to Hungary’s future. Americans and Hungarians share a history of mutual respect and values.” -Ms. Clinton
Ms. Clinton stressed that United States and Hungary are NATO allies, strong economic partners. She added both countries are working to protect and promote democracy and human rights.
Both countries also are working to foster greater stability in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and other countries around the world.
“In your own country you are continuing to work toward reforms that will help strengthen your economy and eliminate corruption.” -Ms. Clinton
She underscored that the United States stands with Hungary as its strive to preserve democratic institutions and set an example for other countries as they work to establish their own democracies, create open and pluralistic societies, and promote human rights.
“As you honor your rich history on this special day, know that the United States sends best wishes to all Hungarians for continued peace and prosperity in the year to come.” -Ms. Clinton
Hungary today is a full member of OECD and the World Trade Organization. OECD was known to be the first international organization to accept Hungary as a full member in 1996.