asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the forthcoming democratic changes in the Republic of Hungary, he has any plans to visit that country and other Central European States during the period of Ireland's EC Presidency; if, in light of the substantial economic changes in the Republic of Hungary, he has taken any steps to ensure that Irish economic interests are encouraged by various Government Departments to develop and expand trade and commercial opportunities with Hungarian interests; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Trade with Hungary.
56.
The Government have been following developments in Hungary closely, both on the political level and in the economic area. We welcome and encourage the progress that country has made towards a pluralistic and democratic society. We have also been following with great interest the new economic measures being implemented in Hungary and the opening up of the Hungarian economy in terms of foreign trade and investment.
The Government are encouraging Irish State agencies to seek out opportunities for developing trade and economic relations with the Republic of Hungary and other Central European States and to take advantage of openings created by the recent economic changes. The Hungarian Vice-Minister for Agriculture visited Dublin recently and met the Minister for Agriculture to discuss co-operation and trade development in the agrifood area.
Hungarian representatives have also met the Minister for Trade and Marketing to discuss the promotion of trade and industrial links between Ireland and Hungary. The Hungarian Foreign Minister, Dr. Gyula Horn will be in Ireland on an official visit on 5 and 7 December. CTT have a trade consultant in Budapest and monitor new opportunities for Irish exports on an ongoing basis. The IDA are promoting the development of joint ventures and partnerships between Irish and Hungarian companies. A number of other State agencies are interested in being involved in Hungary, particularly in the area of consultancies. I can assure the Deputy that our interest in promoting these contacts will continue. The Government are also encouraging interest by private sector firms in exploring trade and economic opportunities in Hungary.
I hope to visit a number of countries in the region during our forthcoming Presidency. However, it would be premature to give details at this stage as details of visits are in general only announced shortly in advance.