The Honourable Mustapha BERRAF, IOC member and ANOCA President visited Budapest from 18 to 23 June 2024 at the invitation of the Hungarian authorities as part of the final leg of the Urban Games Qualifiers for the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

On 20 June, he was received by His Excellency Péter SZIJARTO, Minister of Foreign Affairs. The two leaders had a very cordial breakfast meeting.

Here, President Berraf drew attention to the need to consolidate multilateral ties with Africa.

He also made a presentation on the new development levers launched by Africa under its leaders.

For his part, His Excellency, the Minister responded by declaring his country’s great interest, and its desire to engage anew economically and politically with Africa.

On the same day, he had a meeting with His Excellency Adam SMITH, Minister of Defence and Sports, and reminded him of the greatness and professionalism of Africa, which has sparked his interest to visit certain African countries and to develop closer relationships with African armed forces, with whom Hungary has always had historical ties.

Also on the agenda was the resumption of various training programmes, notably on sports diplomacy for African leaders.

President BERRAF also mentioned that he honoured the various invitations to these very important competitions that gave athletes a final chance to qualify for the Olympic Games.

He handed over trophies on behalf of the IOC President on 21 and 22 June and left Hungary on 23 June. Also present at these meetings were Mr Pat SMITH, former President of the Republic of Hungary, and the former President of Croatia, both IOC members.