At the time of the regime change, György Granasztói regarded Euro-Atlantic integration as the only viable path for Hungary. His exceptionally close relationship with Prime Minister Antall József enabled him to exert considerable influence on Hungarian foreign policy orientation. His astute, relentless advocacy of Hungary’s interests was always a decisive factor in his diplomatic work. He systematically sought to enhance Hungary’s positive image in the areas for which he was responsible. Both in Euro-Atlantic, Belgian–Hungarian, and Luxembourg–Hungarian relations, he laid the foundations that have facilitated diplomatic development to this very day.

György Granasztói’s journal, his analyses and records are not only documents of a bygone era, but also allow room for honest reflections of the contemporary world. A carefully thought-out approach to foreign policy during the regime change, a responsible and committed diplomatic service that pursued both national interests and the cause of European integration, may serve as an example even in the current challenging times.

“It was with great excitement that we set off for NATO, arriving just five minutes after 8 am. Wörner was standing in the doorway; it was packed with photographers and TV people outside, and Wörner announced loudly that Hungary was the first. We were the first to arrive, and I thought that was a great achievement.”

ISBN: 978 963 556 611 2

Author: György Granasztói. Edited and selected by Olga Granasztói; notes by Olga Granasztói and Gergely Fejérdy; essay by Gergely Fejérdy

Year of publication: 2025

Publisher: Gondolat Publishing House

Place of publication: Budapest

Language: Hungarian

Number of pages: 335