On 16th January 2008, the first day of his state visit to India, the Honourable Mr. Ferenc Gyurcsány Prime Minister of the Republic of Hungary addressed the CII Partnership Summit Conference. During the meet the Prime Minister said, “Our government is focusing on providing better and credible regulations with no political obstacles to enhance the investment from Indian companies and to facilitate the growth of industry. India is a very reliable partner for Hungary because of skilled and reliable employers and investors.” In the afternoon in Bangalore the Prime Minister opened the Exhibition “Masters and Young Talents from Hungary” Hungarian Contemporary Art from Pécs: Cultural Capital of Europe 2010 inaugurating the Event of “Magyar Masala” Hungarian Culture in Focus. The day was concluded by the official dinner hosted by Mr. Ramashwar Thakur, Governor of Karnataka.

The following day (17 January), the Prime Minister visited the facilities of Infosys and Biocon. Following a short stop over at the Taj Mahal the evening was dedicated to Hungarian culture at a Jazz Gala in New Delhi, where the guest of honour was the Honourable Ms. Ambika Soni, Minister of Tourism and Culture.

During the official engagements day in New Delhi on 18 January, both sides signed agreements in different sectors, ranging from science and technology to farm and family welfare. Bilateral trade between the two countries is on a growth path. In 2006-07 Indian exports to Hungary amounted to US$142.5 million, while imports were US$128.3 million. Hungary, an important member of the European Union and a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), supports India’s candidature for permanent seat in the expanded UN Security Council.