The first event at the Balassi Institute will be held on 19 April, marking the 135th anniversary of birth of composer Bela Bartok.

The centre, which was formally opened on 22 January by the Slovenian and Hungarian prime ministers, Miro Cerar and Viktor Orban, will be presented to the wider public with an event next week, director Biborka Molnar-Gabor told the press.

Ambassador Edit Szilagyine Batorfi added that the centre would contribute to the promotion of Hungarian culture in Slovenia. One of the main barriers for better understanding is language, which can be circumvented with culture as an universal language, she stressed.

The ambassador says that the cultural programme in the centre would also cover literature and film, adding that the embassy wanted to show "what Hungary can offer and make sure that its is no longer a terra incognita to Slovenians".

Molnar-Gabor noted that Hungarian cultural institutes had a long history, with the current network numbering a total of 23 institutes in 21 countries.

The centre, which also looks to boost bilateral cooperation in education and science, will be launched on 19 April with a concert by the Accord Quartet featuring pieces by Bela Bartok (1881-1945). The concert will be followed by an exhibition by Ferenc Jakab.

The institute will also organise scientific events and Hungarian language courses, and will cooperate with other cultural institutions in the capital, including the Španski borci performing arts centre.