December 11, 2009

Ambassador Szombati Presented Award to Seattle Industrialist
December 9, 2009

Ambassador Bela Szombati presented the “Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary”, one of the highest Hungarian state decorations to Mr. Mark Pigott, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PACCAR Inc., a global technology leader in the manufacture of high-quality commercial vehicles under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates (www.paccar.com).

The Ambassador expressed the gratitude of Hungary to Mr. Pigott and his family who have contributed personally to supporting the National Szechenyi Library (www.oszk.hu/index_en.htm). “This extraordinary generosity, especially in such difficult economic times, is very much appreciated by the people of Hungary.”

Ambassador Szombati also underlined that Mark Pigott has enabled the Hungarian Embassy to engage with companies in the Northwest region of the United States interested in locating their businesses in Hungary. In addition PACCAR Inc. has made a major investment in Budapest by constructing a world class distribution center to support the growing transportation and logistic infrastructure throughout Hungary.

“On behalf of the Hungarian government, I am pleased to present this National Decoration to Mark for his business and philanthropic service to Hungary” – Bela Szombati concluded.

 

Mr. Mark Pigott shared, “This unexpected and humbling honor reflects the generous spirit of Hungary and is very much appreciated by my family. PACCAR Inc. is pleased to contribute to the growth of Hungary and is confident that the investment will generate strong returns over the years.” He added, “It is a joy to support the art and culture of Hungary. The Szechenyi Library is a leader in research and conservation of the literary masterpieces of Hungary and Central Europe and we are delighted to contribute to its important work.”