The 45th Chess Olympiad is set to take place in Budapest, Hungary, from September 10 to 23, marking the tournament’s return to the city after almost a century. With 193 teams in the Open section and 181 in the Women’s section, the event will see fierce competition over 11 rounds in a Swiss format.
A Chinese battery plant in Hungary, despite facing strong local opposition and environmental concerns, is forging ahead with its construction. Residents fear the plant will pollute the environment, exploit resources, and impact their lives, prompting protests, lawsuits, and even air quality monitoring. The Hungarian government’s support for the project, however, stems from its belief that battery production is crucial for economic growth, despite the potential downsides.
Tourist tax revenues in Hungary are on the rise, with the popular Balaton region and the Northern Central Mountains, known for their wine regions, topping the list. This local tax, collected from tourists staying in accommodations, has seen consistent increases since its introduction in 2003. The Balaton settlements and the wine areas of the Northern Central Mountains attract the most visitors, contributing significantly to Hungary’s tourism income.
Hungary has been added to China’s growing list of visa-free countries, making travel between the two nations easier than ever before. This move highlights China’s commitment to fostering international travel and strengthens the diplomatic ties between the two countries. Hungarian citizens can now explore China’s rich history, vibrant culture, and exciting economic opportunities without the hassle of obtaining a visa.
Hungary’s foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, has accused the European Commission of orchestrating a disruption in Russian oil supplies to Hungary and Slovakia. This accusation comes after the Commission declined to mediate between the two countries and Ukraine regarding sanctions placed on Russian oil producer Lukoil. Szijjarto alleges that Brussels instructed Kyiv to block Lukoil’s oil from transiting Ukraine, despite the Commission’s statement that other pipeline routes remain operational. The dispute highlights tensions between Hungary and Slovakia, who oppose military aid to Ukraine, and other EU members working to reduce reliance on Russian energy.
Hungary’s Saint Stephen’s Day on August 20th will be a dazzling spectacle, featuring one of Europe’s largest fireworks displays, a plethora of cultural events, and traditional Hungarian cuisine. The celebrations will encompass a variety of activities for all ages, from exploring the city’s historic landmarks to enjoying family-friendly entertainment.
The 1956 Olympic water polo semifinal between Hungary and the Soviet Union, known as the ‘Blood in the Water’ game, remains one of the most dramatic and controversial moments in Olympic history. Amidst the Hungarian Revolution, the match was marred by violence and culminated in an iconic image of Hungarian player Erwin Zador leaving the pool with blood pouring from his eye. This game stands as a testament to the emotional and political weight that can be carried by sporting events.
Kristof Rasovszky of Hungary secured gold in the men’s 10-kilometer marathon swim at the Paris 2024 Olympics, battling strong currents to hold off Germany’s Oliver Klemet in a thrilling finish. The win marked a triumphant conclusion to the Olympic swimming events held in the Seine River, showcasing the success of the river’s revitalization efforts.
Hungary’s Hubert Kos claimed the first gold medal for his country at the Paris Olympics with a victory in the men’s 200-meter backstroke. Apostolos Christou of Greece earned his country’s first swimming medal since 1896, taking silver in the event.
Hungary’s decision to reopen the debate on treating new generation GM plants as equivalent to conventional crops threatens to delay the agrotech industry’s hopes for easing regulations. The Hungarian presidency’s stance clashes with the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) scientific opinion, which supports the equivalence of certain GM crops to conventionally bred plants. The debate raises concerns about risk assessment, patenting, and potential monopolies, with advocates and opponents highlighting their respective perspectives.
