Mr. Szijjártó emphasized Hungary’s need for balanced relations with both the United States and China.Continue reading
On Thursday, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó met with his Slovak counterpart, Juraj Blanár in Budapest to discuss bilateral cooperation and issues affecting the Hungarian minority in Slovakia.
Minister Szijjártó emphasized the importance of protecting minority language rights, a topic central to the Hungarian government’s foreign policy. The Slovak state language law proposal, intended to preserve the state language, raised concerns among Hungarian communities in Slovakia, but Slovak officials have assured that the law will not restrict minority language usage.
He highlighted Slovakia’s position as Hungary’s second-largest trading partner, with trade nearing EUR 15 billion annually. To further support these ties, Slovakia and Hungary have committed to strengthening energy security and expanding cross-border infrastructure. Projects include a vital Hungarian-Slovak gas inter-connector and the planned construction of new bridges, roads, and railway links, especially around the island of Madeira.
These initiatives, he noted, ensure secure energy supplies and increase regional connectivity, benefiting both countries.
Additionally, Péter Szijjártó underscored the need for a collaborative, pro-peace policy, especially given the current political climate. Both nations are part of a “global pro-peace majority” and share a commitment to peaceful resolution despite opposing voices within the European Union. He emphasized that the close cooperation between the two patriotic governments would continue to thrive despite external criticism.
In his closing thoughts, the Hungarian Foreign Minister reinforced that Hungary’s partnership with Slovakia is based on mutual respect and shared goals, adding that any external efforts to undermine this alliance would fail. This dialogue, focused on minority rights, security, and infrastructure, signals a strengthened Hungarian-Slovak partnership aimed at fostering regional stability and growth.
Via MTI; Featured Image: MTI / Máthé Zoltán