Hungary and Norway reaffirm funding pact for green, health and community projects

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian revolution, finance minister Kármán András held a bilateral meeting with Norwegian finance minister Jens Stoltenberg in Budapest. The two officials confirmed that Norway will continue to support Hungary through the Norwegian Foundation, directing funds toward the country's green transition, health system improvements and strengthening of local communities. The discussion also touched on broader economic issues such as Hungary's budget plans, the potential introduction of the euro and the operation of the EU single market.

Kármán referenced the longstanding personal connection between the Stoltenberg family and Hungary, noting Thorvald Stoltenberg’s participation in the 1956 evacuation of refugees, an act honored by Hungary in 1992. Foreign minister Orbán Anita had earlier announced the revival of talks with the Norwegian Foundation after a previous impasse over the management of the Norwegian Civil Foundation’s resources. The renewed agreement is expected to deliver substantial financial support and includes a commitment from the Norwegian Civil Foundation to fund Hungarian civil society projects up to 2031.