There is cautious optimism about the restoration of diplomatic relations with Hungary, Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan said on Thursday at the joint session of the parliamentary committees of the Armenian National Assembly during the discussion of the 2023 state budget.

According to the deputy minister, the Armenian Foreign Ministry sees certain steps being taken in this direction by Hungary. "And, of course, we are ready to give an appropriate solution to this situation. Additional steps are needed," Hovhannisyan said.

The diplomat noted that with Hungary's mediation, Azerbaijan handed over five captive soldiers to the Armenian side. Hungary also provided financial assistance to Armenia in the fight against the coronavirus. "An Armenian restored church was opened in Budapest. In addition, Hungary provided financial assistance to the Gurgen Margaryan school," a Foreign Ministry spokesman said.

Armenia broke off diplomatic relations with Hungary after Budapest had handed over to Baku the Azerbaijani soldier Ramil Safarov, who was sentenced to life imprisonment without a right for pardon for 30 years for the brutal murder of Armenian officer Gurgen Margaryan in 2004.