Border links between Slovakia and Hungary could boost tourism

Projects such as the construction of bridges over the Ipeľ River as well as other border crossings with Hungary should progress more quickly, stated Slovak Transport and Construction Minister Árpád Érsek at the 40th Utazás international tourism fair, which was opened in Budapest on Thursday. Érsek added that these projects could help to develop tourism between Slovakia and Hungary. "There is calm among people at the moment, but I have to say that on both sides there are issues that are waiting to be raised," said Érsek about the current state of Slovak-Hungarian relations. The Slovak transport minister further stressed the importance of border crossings between the two countries. "I must point out that we are building a [new] bridge at Komárno and other connections. All this will help tourism," said Érsek, noting that nearly 100,000 Hungarians officially came to Slovakia last year. According to Érsek, certain shortcomings can be observed in rail transport connections. A link between Zvolen and Budapest would help, he said. "I think that in order to build together, a good atmosphere is needed as well as trust on both sides, and this is what we politicians are trying to bring about." A dozen Slovak entities are among the 300 exhibitors from a total of 23 countries that are presenting themselves at the most important tourism fair in Hungary. The organisers expect 40,000 visitors at the fair, which will run until Sunday.