Presidency budget

Hungary will be spending a total of HUF 23,78 billion for the Presidency tasks, which at currency rates at the end of November are close to EUR 85 billion. This can be considered to be a provident budget, noting that the budgets of Presidencies of previous years were between EUR 80-150 million. (Although it is difficult to appreciate the actual spending of previous Presidencies, due to the difference in accounting practices.) The Hungarian government will endeavour to use tax-payers’ money in the most efficient manner possible.  

A substantial part of the Presidency budget will be spent on organising approximately 260 events in Hungary, Preparations will take place during the first half of 2011. During the Presidency, Hungary expects to host 35-40 thousand official guests. The accommodation of high-ranking foreign delegation members will be paid by Hungary. The host country will also provide the transportation services for delegates between their hotels and the event venues; the Hungarian organisers will also cover the expenses of catering, information technology required during the conferences, translation, interpretation, host broadcasting services related to events in Hungary and also the Presidency webpage.

In accordance with the unwritten rules of the EU, a predefined circle of delegates will receive souvenirs from the country in office. The value of these souvenirs may not exceed EUR 200. Some of the souvenirs will include Hungarian arts, while others will pay homage to world famous Hungarian inventions.