Published: 2023-07-16
A new ferry service has been launched between Hungary and Slovakia, providing a boost to border crossings. The project, co-financed by the European Union, will operate multiple times a day and aims to enhance the strategic importance of having as many border crossing points as possible between the two countries.
Increased Border Crossing Points
Hungary and Slovakia have expanded their number of border crossing points from 22 in 2010 to 36 currently, thanks to an agreement between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and former Slovak premier Robert Fico. This initiative aims to alleviate the inconvenience of having to travel long distances just to reach a crossing point. Furthermore, four more crossing points are scheduled to open this year, including three bridges over the River Ipoly and one road crossing in the east.
Strategic Importance for Hungary
Being a landlocked country, Hungary recognizes the significance of having numerous border crossing points with its neighboring countries. In particular, the extensive border section shared with Slovakia highlights the importance of facilitating smoother trade and transportation between the two nations. Slovakia is currently Hungary's top trading partner, with a bilateral trade turnover of 17 billion euros in the previous year. Additionally, it is one of the most important investment destinations for Hungarian businesses.
Bilateral Cooperation
Hungary and Slovakia have fostered strong bilateral cooperation, which has contributed to their respective economic growth and security. The opening of new border crossing points further strengthens this collaboration and enhances the opportunities for both countries.
Conclusion
The launch of the new ferry service and the increased number of border crossing points between Hungary and Slovakia demonstrate the commitment to promoting smoother trade, transportation, and bilateral cooperation. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on economic growth and security for both countries.
Questions & Answers
What is the new ferry service connecting Hungary and Slovakia? The new ferry service is a project that was co-financed through European Union support. It has the capacity to carry 80 pedestrian travelers or 40 pedestrians and 8 vehicles.
How often does the ferry service run? The ferry service runs 8 times a day on weekdays and 16 times a day on weekends.
Why are border crossing points between Hungary and its neighbors important? Having as many border crossing points as possible between Hungary and its neighbors is of strategic importance. It facilitates trade, tourism, and enhances cooperation between the countries.
How many border crossing points were there between Hungary and Slovakia in 2010? In 2010, Hungary and Slovakia had just 22 border crossing points between them.
How many border crossing points are there between Hungary and Slovakia now? Thanks to an agreement between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and former Slovak premier Robert Fico, Hungary and Slovakia now have 36 border crossing points.
Are there plans to open more border crossing points between Hungary and Slovakia? Yes, Hungary and Slovakia plan to open four more crossing points this year. This includes three bridges over the River Ipoly and one road crossing in the east.
Why are border crossing points with Slovakia important for Hungary? Hungary shares its longest border section with Slovakia, making it strategically important to have enough border crossing points. Slovakia is also Hungary's top trading partner and an important investment destination for Hungarian businesses.
What is the trade turnover between Hungary and Slovakia? Bilateral trade turnover between Hungary and Slovakia reached a record 17 billion euros last year.
How does Hungary and Slovakia contribute to each other's economic growth and security? According to Szijjártó, Hungary and Slovakia contribute to each other's economic growth and security through bilateral cooperation.
