Chongqing–On May 26, 2025, Chongqing's Yuzhong District and Hungary's Balatonboglár City took a significant step toward deepening bilateral cooperation by a city promotion event and the sister city agreement signing ceremony held at Chongqing World Financial Center.

The ceremony, attended by Deng Guanghuai, Deputy Head of Yuzhong District, and Miklós Mészáros, Mayor of Balatonboglár, highlighted shared aspirations in tourism, commerce, and cultural exchanges. This milestone event is also marked as a meaningful step forward ahead of the 76^th anniversary of Chinese-Hungarian diplomatic relations.

Both sides exchange ideas about future cooperation plans. (Photo/Zeng Junxiang)

During the promotion ceremony, Yuzhong showcased its unique blend of historical heritage and modern vibrancy through a dynamic promotional video, followed by detailed presentations on its business-friendly policies, industry energy, and rich cultural heritage. "Yuzhong District is Chongqing's window to the world," said Deng Guanghuai, noting the district's 15 foreign consulates and 80% of Chongqing's foreign financial institutions, positioning it as a hub for international finance and trade. Key attractions like Hongyadong, Liziba Station, and Yangtze River Cableway have gone viral on the internet for years. As the "mother city" of Chongqing, Yuzhong District boasts the richest cultural resource, which serves as a potential draw for Hungarian tourists.

Mayor Miklós reciprocated by introducing Balatonboglár’s allure as a worth-visiting destination, spotlighting Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest freshwater lake, and its thriving wine industry and wellness tourism. The city is often called "the town of grapes and wine", attracting over 2 million annual visitors. "These techniques have been passed down through generations while also incorporating modern innovation. Balatonboglár is also famous for its industry and rich culture, just like Chongqing's Yuzhong District," he remarked, highlighting opportunities for collaboration in agritourism, digital trade, and health industries.

The two cities unveiled actionable plans focusing on: economic and trade innovation by leveraging Yuzhong's e-commerce platforms to create a "Digital Silk Road" for Hungarian wines can be beneficial to both sides; cultural and tourism fusion through the joint development of designing themed travel routes with "Hot Spring & Megacity"; education exchange for mutual learning through different events to expand sister-school programs and deepen cross-cultural understanding; and green transition to explore green energy and smart city projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Deng Guanghuai, Deputy Head of Yuzhong District, and Miklós Mészáros, Mayor of Balatonboglár, sign the cooperation agreement. (Photo/Zeng Junxiang)

The event culminated in the signing ceremony, with both sides exchanging symbolic gifts: Yuzhong presented a traditional map of Chongqing while Balatonboglár offered its typical local wine. "Standing at a new historical starting point, we are committed to fostering more cooperation with Balatonboglár City. Together, we will transform mutual consensus into tangible outcomes." Deng Guanghuai stated.