Referring to the Compromise of 1867, Áder said it had “ushered in an era of unprecedented national development”, in which Hungary’s cities underwent major changes, roads and railways were built, and public education started.

Concerning the past year, the president noted the medals Hungary’s Olympic athletes had won, Hungary’s goals at the European soccer championship, and the country’s scientific and cultural achievements.

He said the country should also appreciate “Hungarians who make our lives nicer, better, and happier in their own positions and according to their possibilities”. Áder commemorated Hungarian authors Imre Kertész, Péter Esterházy, Sándor Csoóri, and pianist Zoltán Kocsis, who died during the year.

“They will stay with us forever, because their achievements have made all of us richer,” he said. In his address, Áder wished “more peace, calm, understanding and respect for one another” in 2017, and asked for “God’s blessing for the Hungarian nation”.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.

MTI photo: Kovács Tamás