A farewell message from H.E. Mr. András Baranyi, Ambassador of Hungary
H.E. Mr. András Baranyi and his spouse, Emese
Dear Colleagues, dear Friends,
I had the honour and pleasure of holding my farewell reception at the most beautiful place of the most beautiful city in the world – at the Strahov Monastery gardens in Prague. I fell in love with this place the very first time I visited it.
Since arriving in Prague, unfortunately I have grown four years older, but at the same time fortunately also four years richer in treasured memories.
Let me begin with a few tangible memories which I collected here and will keep after my return home. The first is a business card from today’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Petr Macinka. I received it from him four years ago, and kept it – including his mobile number – without knowing he would one day become minister. Then there is a Christmas postcard from President Klaus, who wrote me some really kind words. Finally, I have a personal letter from First Deputy Prime Minister Havlíček, who honoured me with a birthday greeting.
Of course, I also carry many intangible experiences. Let me share one that is almost unbelievable. When our Minister decided to visit Prague a few months ago, he asked me to arrange several meetings. I approached representatives of the Czech government with my request and – to my surprise – in just 15 minutes the whole programme was confirmed. Receiving answers from all ministries in such an exceptionally short time was an unprecedented experience for me.
When I was a teenager, I had three major wishes. The first one was to find a beautiful girl and establish a family. Now, after 28 years together, with two adult children, I am very proud that this most important wish came true.
My second wish was professional: diplomacy. I have always been drawn to meeting new people and discovering different nations, cultures, and languages. This dream also came true, as I am now completing my second ambassadorial term.
My third dream was to stay for a while in Prague. My love for the Czech Republic began with Czechoslovak television. Back then, we had no smartphones or internet, so TV was the only source of entertainment. Whenever Hungarian TV offered a boring programme, I switched to Czechoslovak TV. That was the beginning of my connection with Czech culture, and it has only grown ever since.
After four years here, I feel that the positive emotions I have towards the Czech people, Prague, and this fantastic country have become at least partially mutual, as now I can truely feel your sympathy.
My words of appreciation go to my Czech partners for these shared feelings and for the friendships you have honoured me with. I would also like to thank the Diplomatic Corps for our excellent cooperation – and especially for the smiles you returned to mine. My gratitude extends to my excellent colleagues at the Embassy. And last but not least my thank you goes to my wife, for her patience and support.
I wish you all the very best.
András Baranyi
Ambassador of Hungary to the Czech Republic (August 2022 – July 2026)