Viktor Orbán said on Saturday that the "dispute with Sweden is nearing a conclusion."Continue reading
After extensive discussions with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán emphasized the significance of today’s meeting, marking a crucial step in the process of rebuilding trust between the two nations, Magyar Nemzet reported.
The Hungarian Prime Minister reiterated Hungary’s core principle of fostering friendships and striving for deep cooperation with all countries, underscoring the importance of nurturing diplomatic ties. Acknowledging Sweden’s pivotal role in providing refuge to Hungarian refugees during the 1956 crisis and its support during Hungary’s accession negotiations with the European Union,
Mr. Orbán highlighted the historical bonds between the two countries.
He stressed the substantial increase in bilateral trade between Hungary and Sweden, with the volume of traffic doubling since 2010, and nearing the three billion mark. Additionally, he emphasized the successful cooperation in nuclear energy, particularly Sweden’s involvement in the construction of the Paks 2 nuclear plant. The prime minister also noted the significant influx of Swedish tourists to Hungary, reaching 70,000 visitors the previous year.
Photo: MTI / Miniszterelnöki Sajtóiroda / Fischer Zoltán
Defense cooperation emerged as a central topic of discussion during the meeting, underscoring the imperative of enhancing Hungarian defense capabilities. Finalizing negotiations in this regard indicates a strong commitment to bolstering national security.
Parliament is set to convene on Monday to deliberate on crucial decisions stemming from the discussions with Sweden.
Reflecting on Hungary’s previous efforts to establish an independent air defense system during his first government tenure, Prime Minister Orbán announced plans to expand and supplement the existing air defense fleet by acquiring four additional Gripen aircraft. Additionally, agreements were reached to extend logistics contracts to include training and to establish a research and development center focused on artificial intelligence.
Moreover, Orbán highlighted Sweden’s role as the next holder of the presidency of the European Union in the first half of 2023, noting Sweden’s commitment to share its experiences with Hungary as the country prepares to assume the presidency in the second half of 2024.
In a significant move, parliament expressed its support for Sweden’s accession to NATO.
Swedish Prime Minister Kristersson echoed the constructive nature of the talks, emphasizing the importance of the cooperation agreement reached between the two countries. He specifically mentioned Hungary’s purchase of four Gripen fighter jets and highlighted the significant presence of Swedish companies in Hungary, contributing to local employment.
In response to questions from journalists, Mr. Orbán reaffirmed Hungary’s commitment to defending Sweden if attacked, underlining ongoing efforts to rebuild trust between the two nations. He emphasized that the defense cooperation agreement is not merely a transaction, but a reflection of the longstanding partnership between Hungary and Sweden in defense matters.
MTI / Miniszterelnöki Sajtóiroda / Fischer Zoltán
Mr. Kristersson stressed the importance of NATO members’ acceptance of new candidates and underscored the need for openness and honesty in bilateral relations. He emphasized mutual respect for differences and a shared commitment to supporting each other in challenging times.
Orbán reaffirmed Hungary’s dedication to maintaining its air defense capabilities in the long term, highlighting significant recent developments in the country’s military sector.
He announced Prime Minister Kristersson’s visit to Hungary on his social media, with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó also reporting on the outcomes of the Swedish-Hungarian summit. In a radio interview addressing Sweden’s NATO accession, the Hungarian Prime Minister expressed his intent to collaborate with his Swedish counterpart to build trust and present compelling arguments to support accession within the parliamentary group.
Important agreement today between Sweden and Hungary on the acquisition of four new Gripen fighter jets – a Swedish pride and one of the best systems in the world.
— SwedishPM (@SwedishPM) February 23, 2024
While emphasizing the conclusion of a significant military-industrial agreement, Orbán underscored the importance of mutual acceptance of differences between Hungary and Sweden, particularly regarding cultural values and perspectives on war and peace.
The extensive discussions and agreements reached during the Swedish-Hungarian summit signify a strengthening of bilateral relations and underscore the commitment of both nations to mutual cooperation and security.
Via Magyar Nemzet; Featured Image: MTI / Miniszterelnöki Sajtóiroda / Fischer Zoltán