Hungary's President Pal Losonczi arrived in India on Tuesday (7 December) for talks on what he described as important international issues and bilateral matters with Indian leaders.

SYNOPSIS: A 21-gun salute greeted the Hungarian president and his wife as they arrived at the start of their seven-day state visit. At New Delhi airport to meet the Hungarians were Indian President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed and Prime Minister Mrs. Gandhi, showing how highly the Indians regard the visit. Mr. Losonozi in turn was highly complimentary of India. "We know well the noble aspirations and wonderful efforts of your country and government", he said.

Mr. Losonczi inspected an inter-services guard of honour, and was introduced to India's chief military and government officials. Speaking to newsmen at the airport, Mr. Losonczi said he eagerly looked forward to talks with Mrs. Gandhi. He said he was convinced that Hungarian and Indian viewpoints on essential questions of international politics were identical or very close to each other. It is the Hungarian leader's first visit to India in seven years.