To mark the launch of direct flights and the opening of the travel season, the Consulate General of Hungary in Almaty hosted a festive reception dedicated to wellness and leisure opportunities at Hungarian thermal resorts.
Shymkent, one of Kazakhstan’s oldest and fastest-growing cities, is opening new horizons for international cooperation. The city is now becoming the southern air gateway from Kazakhstan to Europe. Budapest, in turn – an established center of European culture, investment, and economic opportunity – makes a fitting partner in this endeavor.
On May 27, 2025, a new direct route between Shymkent and Budapest was officially launched, operated by SCAT Airlines. This milestone marks an important step forward in strengthening international air connectivity and tourism between Kazakhstan and Hungary.
The evening reception was opened by His Excellency Mr. Ottó Iván Róna, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Hungary, who delivered a welcoming speech.
“This new direct flight is not just a matter of convenience for travelers,” he noted. “It is a living testament to the growing interest our peoples have in one another. Hungary and Kazakhstan are connected not only by formal relations, but also by a sincere mutual desire for deeper understanding, partnership, and cultural exchange. Not long ago, I had the honor of speaking at Gumilyov Eurasian National University on the topic of ‘Soft Power’ in Hungarian-Kazakh relations. I am convinced that tourism is one of the most powerful and effective forms of soft power. It is through travel, face-to-face communication, and the exchange of experiences that we lay the strongest foundations of mutual understanding.”
According to the ambassador, direct flights provide not only a boost to business – though that is inevitable – but also serve as a powerful means of bringing cultures closer together.
“For centuries, both Hungary and Kazakhstan have acted as bridges between East and West. We share common historical roots. In Hungary, there is deep respect for Kazakhs as a kindred nation. The Cumans (Kipchaks), who live in Hungary, take pride in their heritage and see themselves as a link between our peoples.
Tonight is not just a celebration – it is a symbol of our expanding dialogue, friendship, and shared curiosity. I thank all of you for being active participants in this process. I am confident that this new direct route will become a strong and reliable air bridge between our countries, unlocking new opportunities for cooperation across business and culture alike,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Ensana Group – an international network of wellness and health resorts – sales representative Irina Perova noted that the new Shymkent–Budapest connection is more than just a transport link.
“It marks the beginning of a new chapter in tourism and closer ties between our countries. Hungary is a destination worth discovering, recommending, and falling in love with. Together, we believe we can bring Hungary closer to Kazakhstan,” she said.
Representing SCAT Airlines, Head of Own Sales Department Ekaterina Russova emphasized that SCAT is open to dialogue with the travel industry and business partners, offering flexible solutions, reliable service, and long-term partnership opportunities.
“With our brand-new, modern terminal in Shymkent – with a capacity of over 2,000 passengers per hour and international-standard infrastructure – we have a strong foundation for expanding our route network. SCAT is actively building a new map of air travel, connecting Europe and Asia through Kazakhstan and offering seamless connections both domestically and abroad,” she stated.
The evening concluded in a warm, friendly atmosphere. The final highlight was a prize draw, with guests winning everything from airline tickets and hotel vouchers in Budapest to Hungarian cosmetics and fine wines. Every guest left not just with a gift, but with a feeling of true partnership and the sense that exciting new global horizons are opening up.
