The WHO’s decision has been in line with the Hungarian government’s intention to attract as many units of the UN and other international organisations to Budapest as possible, Szijjártó said.

This benefits Hungary and the skilled workers who can gain international experience from such opportunities which also have financial and professional advantages, he said, adding that this is why the government is asking parliament’s approval to the law on the agreement with the WHO.

Budapest is in a good position in the competition for hosting UN institutions and organisations thanks to its geographical location, infrastructure, available workforce and highlydeveloped financial and IT sectors.

The WHO Budapest centre is planned to start operation with a staff of 28 and the organisation will decide later on whether to transfer further functions to Budapest, he added. Ruling Fidesz welcomed the plan, the party’s spokeswoman told parliament.

This shows that international organisations consider Budapest a reliable partner in managing global problems, she added.

The opposition Socialist’s group supports the proposal and welcomes the opportunity for Hungary, spokesman Attila Mesterházy said. Radical nationalist Jobbik said it supported the proposal, but noted that it involved certain financial obligations.

The party’s spokesman said Hungary will have to pay 16 billion forints (EUR 50.6m) in the next 15 years as a result of hosting the centre.

Source: www.hungarymatters.hu
Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.

MTI photo: KKM/Dimitar Kjoszemarlijev