külügyminisztérium

külügyminisztérium, in Hungarian, refers to the ministry of foreign affairs, the government department responsible for a nation's external relations and diplomacy. It handles the formulation and implementation of foreign policy, negotiates treaties and agreements, and represents the state in bilateral and multilateral diplomacy. The ministry maintains diplomatic missions abroad—embassies, consulates, and permanent representations to international organizations—and provides information and services to citizens abroad. Through its networks, it also conducts consular affairs and, in many cases, coordinates visa policy and travel advisories in cooperation with other state agencies.

The ministry is typically led by a minister of foreign affairs, who sits in the cabinet, and supported by deputy ministers or state secretaries. Its internal organization commonly includes directorates-general or directorates focused on political, economic, regional, cultural, and administrative matters, as well as a staff of diplomats and civil servants.

In modern states, the külügyminisztérium operates within the wider framework of the government and interacts closely with defense, finance, trade, and development ministries. It engages with international organizations such as the United Nations and regional bodies, and participates in EU or other blocs' external relations when applicable.

The exact structure, powers, and naming vary by country. In Hungary these functions are carried out by the Külügyminisztérium, which directs the country's diplomacy and foreign policy while representing Hungary abroad.