On Monday, Mr. Szijjártó had a telephone conversation with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts.Continue reading
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, emphasized the significance of Egypt in protecting Europe from illegal migration during his visit to Cairo.
At a joint press conference with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty, Péter Szijjártó highlighted the need to support Egypt’s border protection efforts and the shared challenges both countries face.
Minister Szijjártó’s visit to Egypt comes at a crucial time as Europe continues to struggle with illegal migration and the effects of regional conflicts. He stressed the importance of Hungary’s collaboration with Egypt on border protection and migration management, noting that both nations are located near conflict zones and face similar issues.
Both countries are in the immediate neighborhood of armed conflict and war, and we both face the challenges of mass illegal migration,” the politician said.
He praised Egypt as the “bastion” of Europe’s defense, stating, “it is strange, but today the situation is that Brussels is the threat and Cairo is the protection for Europe in terms of migration.”
Péter Szijjártó urged the EU to provide financial support to Egypt under the European Peace Facility, citing Egypt’s extensive border as a critical factor in preventing migration flows. He added, “if Egypt were to allow migrants to pass through its territory, there would be a very difficult migration wave to Europe.”
In addition to migration, the Hungarian Foreign Minister emphasized Hungary and Egypt’s shared pro-peace stance. Both nations, he said, had no part in the war in Ukraine but are paying the price through issues such as inflation.
Mr. Szijjártó stressed that “arms supplies will certainly not end the war,” and advocated for ceasefire and peace negotiations.
He also thanked Egypt for its stabilizing role in the Middle East, including efforts to free hostages, which involve Hungarian citizens.
The visit also saw the signing of agreements to enhance cooperation in nuclear energy and other sectors. Hungary is looking to benefit from Egypt’s experience in nuclear development, while Hungarian companies are playing a significant role in Egyptian infrastructure projects, including the delivery of railway wagons and fiber-optic cable construction.
The Foreign Minister’s visit underscored the strategic relationship between Hungary and Egypt, with both countries aligning on key security and economic issues. Péter Szijjártó expressed optimism that ongoing political cooperation would further deepen economic ties between Hungarian and Egyptian companies.
Via MTI; Featured Image: Facebook / Szijjártó Péter