It is a strong alliance of interests and values of Hungarians in the homeland and abroad, he said.

At the meeting, Áder said that the thoughts, actions and achievements of excellent Hungarians “span the world”.

He thanked the foundation’s members for “using their professions and expertise to protect and elevate the reputation of Hungarians worldwide”.

 “To achieve our goals … even in the face of attacks or misrepresentations, is a noble endeavour,” Áder said.

Friends of Hungary, founded in 2011, is a community of people living abroad who are either of Hungarian ancestry or are otherwise connected to the country.

They count as opinion leaders within their own communities and countries of residence, according to the foundation’s website.

 The foundation currently reaches nearly one million people. This year’s meeting was the fifth in the presidential palace, with delegates from five continents present.

 MTI photo: Bruzák Noémi