ABSTRACT
Non-official public opinion regarding the neutral States has always been highly positive. The neutral and independent policy of Austria, of course, also contributed to the development of a positive attitude. The role which the some neutral States are playing in securing peace and security in Europe is given a highly favorable appraisal in Hungary. Naturally, the foreign policy of the neutral countries was not solely intended to influence the policy of a Western power. In many cases, this foreign policy has affected the Socialist countries as well. Hungarian politicians and diplomats who are in personal contact with their Austrian counterparts have a favorable impression of them. Like the relations established with their Austrian partners, relations between Hungarian and Finnish politicians and diplomats on different levels are truly exemplary. In 1969, an agreement was concluded between the Hungarian Institute of Cultural Relations and the Swedish Cultural Institute.
