Diaz-Balart Receives Prestigious Award from Hungarian Government

WASHINGTON —Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) received the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit of Hungary. The award was presented by Mr. Zsolt Németh, the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Hungarian Parliament. It is the highest award given by Hungary to non-Hungarians. 

“I am truly honored to receive this prestigious honor. I am proud to stand alongside such an inspiring people with such a rich and moving history. In the past several decades, they have demonstrated to the world how, through courage and sheer determination, they have conquered tyranny and transitioned to a vibrant democracy. Today, as the Hungarian people thrive in freedom, they have not forgotten the oppression that continues in too many corners of the globe. I remain forever grateful for their commitment to helping others achieve the liberties and right to self-governance which the Hungarian people so bravely achieved.

“I will continue to work to ensure that the United States remains committed to deepening its ties with Hungary, and that our countries continue working together toward our shared cause of freedom and democracy throughout the world. Now, more than ever, our ties with our eastern European allies are essential. I look forward to further deepening my friendship with the Hungarian people, and to bolstering the ever-strengthening bond between the United States and Hungary.”

From left: Chairman Zsolt Németh, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart, Mrs. Tia Diaz-Balart, Ambassador György Szapáry, Former Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart

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