Europe Is Bigger Than the EU: Foreign Minister Calls for Openness and Enlargement

During the European Political Community (EPC) summit in Budapest, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó emphasized the importance of European unity beyond the EU, stressing that “Europe is more, Europe is bigger than the European Union.”

Hosting foreign ministers from non-EU countries such as North Macedonia, Georgia, and Türkiye, Minister Szijjártó underscored that collaboration with these nations is crucial to bolstering Europe’s security and competitiveness. According to the Foreign Minister, the EU’s approach of hesitating on enlargement has resulted in missed opportunities, notably in relations with the Western Balkans, where countries have waited an average of 15 years for membership.

He criticized this delay as a “double standard of rejection” against conservative and patriotic governments in the region.

Péter Szijjártó urged that “instead of a policy of closing in, turning inwards, insulting and lecturing, we need a policy of respect, a policy of openness.” He emphasized that the EU’s current course, marked by reluctance to admit new members and limited cooperation with non-EU nations, undercuts Europe’s economic potential.

Furthermore, he argued that Europe’s strength relies on more than strict EU membership, calling for “much closer, much more coordinated cooperation” to address broader continental needs.

He stressed that forging ties with major economies such as Türkiye could offer mutual benefits, particularly in areas of growth and development.

Concluding his remarks, Minister Szijjártó reiterated Hungary’s commitment to making the EU “a true European integration,” with expanded policies and partnerships that benefit all European states. “We hope that this message will also come across at the European Political Community summit here today,” he added, reinforcing Hungary’s vision for an inclusive, secure, and competitive Europe.

Via MTI; Featured Image: Facebook / Szijjártó Péter