How does Hungarys unique connection to the Danube play a role in transboundary affairs?
István Õri: Hungary is situated at the bottom of the Carpathian Basin and surrounded by seven neighbouring countries. We share most of our mid-size river basins and many groundwater bodies, and 95% of Hungary’s surface water originates from abroad. As a result, transboundary cooperation on such important issues as water allocation, prevention of transboundary pollution, and flood control are of vital importance to us. Being an upstream as well as a downstream country in the heart of the Danube Basin, we are proud to play an active role in Danube cooperation and solidarity development. Allow me just to mention our efforts in the initiation of the convention, our work to widen the scope of cooperation with ecological issues and flood control, and to stimulate sub-basin cooperation. During our presidency we wish to further strengthen the spirit of cooperation and contribute to its development by fulfilling our obligations on one hand, and sharing our experiences gained in transboundary co
