“If this is isolation, we’ll take it,” Foreign Minister Remarks

World leaders during the EPC Summit in Budapest on November 7.

In a recent interview on Kossuth Radio, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó highlighted key themes from the European Political Community (EPC) summit in Budapest, dismissed claims of diplomatic isolation, and discussed the potential impact of the U.S. elections on Europe.

According to Magyar Nemzet, Minister Szijjártó expressed confidence in Hungary’s diplomatic stance, rebutting earlier criticism that the country’s foreign policy has left it isolated. “If isolation means every major Western leader, from the French President to the German Chancellor, meets in Budapest for two days, then we will take this criticism on board,” he remarked.

The politician discussed the effects of Donald Trump’s presidential election victory, viewing it as a potential shift toward a “pro-peace” strategy that contrasts with what he sees as the European Union’s unsuccessful focus on arms transfers and sanctions.

According to him, Trump’s approach questions Europe’s strategy on the conflict in Ukraine, as it emphasizes peace over escalation.

“The U.S. president will now take a diametrically opposed pro-peace approach to the pro-war stance he had previously taken,” Mr. Szijjártó stated, underlining Hungary’s support for a peaceful resolution.

He further criticized EU leaders for deflecting responsibility for the EU’s economic struggles, including inflation and rising energy costs, which he linked to the European Union’s current stance on the war. By avoiding an “honest confrontation” about this failed strategy, the Minister argued, EU leaders seek to evade accountability. He stressed the importance of Hungary prioritizing its own interests, which include focusing on economic recovery and policies that support families and small businesses, mentioning plans to double the family tax allowance and protect pensions.

Finally, Mr. Szijjártó emphasized Hungary’s need for balanced relations with both the United States and China, citing Trump’s previous willingness to negotiate as a positive example for Hungarian diplomacy.

Both China and the United States are equally important,” he noted, adding that Hungary aims to have “the best possible agreements” with both powers.

The Foreign Minister concluded that a pro-peace approach next year could open doors to new economic opportunities in Europe that are unattainable in a time of war.

Via Magyar Nemzet; Featured Image: MTI/Kovács Tamás