Hungarian National Day celebrated in Ankara

By Mehmet Sah Yilmaz

ANKARA (AA) - Hungarian National Day was celebrated with a music and dance celebration that was organized in Ankara.

The event was attended by the Hungarian Ambassador to Ankara, Viktor Matis, and other guests.

Matis noted that 176 years ago, the 1848 - 1849 Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence broke out, with March 15 an important day for his country.

He recounted how Hungarians initiated a freedom war against Austria, and after the failure of the revolution, national hero Lajos Kossuth sought refuge in western Kutahya province with thousands of people.

"After staying in Türkiye for a year and a half, Kossuth went to the US, where he was welcomed by 1 million people. Kossuth became a symbol of freedom during his time," said Matis.

He noted that soldiers like Kossuth joined the Ottoman army and fought on many fronts.

He recognized their efforts to keep Kossuth's memory alive in Türkiye, noting museums where his memories are preserved.

Matis said 2024 is the Türkiye-Hungary Cultural Year and organizing events throughout the year will continue.

*Writing by Alperen Aktas from Istanbul