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During a joint press conference with the Serbian Minister of Economy, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó criticized the European Union’s approach to enlargement policy, particularly the exclusion of Olivér Várhelyi from continuing as Commissioner for Enlargement.
Péter Szijjártó described this move by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as part of a broader hypocrisy within Brussels regarding enlargement, especially towards the Western Balkans. According to the Foreign Minister, the EU’s majority publicly supports enlargement but acts differently behind closed doors.
Everyone is publicly in favor of enlargement, but when the 27 of us foreign ministers close the door behind us, the majority speaks against enlargement,” he stated.
The Minister argued that von der Leyen’s decision was aimed at preventing pro-enlargement Hungary from holding the portfolio. He noted, “today, the EU, Brussels, the officials, and Ursula von der Leyen are displaying incredible hypocrisy on enlargement.” Despite the setback, Hungary remains committed to the cause.
As we earlier reported, Olivér Várhelyi has since been nominated for the role of Commissioner for Public Health, a significant shift from his previous focus on enlargement.
This appointment marks a departure from his previous responsibilities, reflecting the ongoing reshuffling within the EU Commission.
Péter Szijjártó also emphasized that Western Balkan countries have been waiting an average of 14 and half years for EU membership, with enlargement stalled due to internal EU opposition. He concluded by reaffirming Hungary’s dedication to supporting their accession. “We will continue to do our utmost to ensure that the Western Balkan countries can join the European Union as soon as possible,” he affirmed.
Via MTI; Featrured Image: Pixabay