BUDAPEST, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- Hungary inaugurated the temporary office of the World Aquatics on Monday, marking the first phase of the organization's relocation from Lausanne to Budapest.
The full global headquarters is expected to be operational in the Hungarian capital by 2027, according to Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto.
"We are at the first step, which is currently a temporary office. The second step will take place next year when the central headquarters is established. By 2026, the entire global headquarters will be completed, and from 2027 onwards, all swimming-related activities will be managed from here," Szijjarto said.
"We will definitely fulfill our promises, and from 2027, the full global headquarters will operate from Budapest," Szijjarto affirmed. "I wish great success to the temporary office, which is located very close to Parliament and the city center, showcasing the importance we place on sports and swimming," he added.
Szijjarto underscored the importance of attracting international organizations to Hungary, highlighting the country's growing role as a host for global sports federations.
He also said that nurturing young talent is a key focus, announcing the establishment of a government sports scholarship program aimed at drawing top swimmers from developing countries. ■
