The Speaker of the National Assembly   of Hungary  H.E. László Kövér, has invited Kenya to strongly consider opening an embassy in Budapest, Hungary, as an entry point to serve Kenya’s interest in East and Central Europe. His call comes amid flourishing relations between Bucharest and Nairobi, which have gained momentum in the last few months, culminating to yesterday's state visit by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon.Justin Muturi. This deepening cooperation has further paved way for a 100 annual scholarships for Kenyan students.

Speaking when he received Speaker Muturi, at the Parliament Building, Speaker László, observed that Hungary was honoured by the visit especially given that Speaker Muturi is the first Kenyan Speaker to ever visit Hungary. He further underscored the place of Parliamentary Diplomacy in enriching bilateral relations in the modern world, noting that their respective legislatures are key agencies in the cultivation of closer ties. He termed the visit as an important milestone in further strengthening Kenya-Hungary relations

" This visit is a historic one. We are happy that our relations have really flourished over the last couple of months. We are keen in cultivating deeper relations with our friends in Africa, key among them Kenya", he said.

On his part, Speaker Muturi thanked him for the invitation and the grand reception extended to his delegation. He expressed Kenya's interest in engaging Budapest and in improving the trade balance between the two countries.

" We are happy to be here and grateful for your great reception. Our visit now marks the commencement of the engagement we envisage between our legislatures", said Speaker Muturi.

Speaker Muturi further extended an invitation to Speaker  László Kövér, to grace the National Prayer Breakfast, slated to be held in May.

The delegation was later taken through a tour of the National Assembly- the most visited public institution in Hungary, attracting 700,000 tourists per year. The two sides further sought to understand each other’s structure of government and the effect it has on service delivery.

Speaker Muturi who is on a 4-day visit to Budapest on the invitation of Speaker László Kövér, is also expected to meet the Hungarian President, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs during this visit.

The Speaker is accompanied by Hon. Jeremiah Kioni, Hon. Robert Pukose, Hon. Gladys Boss Shollei, Hon. Paul Ongili and the Clerk of the National Assembly  Mr.Michael Sialai.