"The intent of the leadership of [World Aquatics] is clear, now it only requires affirmation by the congress to move their HQ to Budapest," Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said after signing the agreement with World Aquatics President Husain Al Musallam.

He noted that Hungary was one of the eight founding members of the international swimming federation in 1908. He also pointed to the success of Hungarians in aquatics on the international stage.

He said World Aquatics' move to Budapest would be "a great acknowledgment" for Hungary.

World Aquatics leaders aim to fill at least half of the positions at the HQ with Hungarians, he added.