The Government Will Keep Its Pragmatic Approach to Energy Policies

Hungary’s energy policies are solely based on two critical factors: security of supply and price, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó emphasized. At the fifth Budapest LNG Summit conference, Szijjártó addressed recent energy crises and their profound impact, particularly on countries lacking significant domestic resources or seaports. 

The Minister firmly stated that, “we are not prepared to accept that any other considerations should be taken into account other than these two.” He reiterated his opposition to the politicization and ideological entanglement of energy supply issues, warning that such approaches could jeopardize security.

Péter Szijjártó emphasized the necessity of dealing with energy supply based on practical realities rather than political ideologies. He highlighted Hungary’s unwavering focus on security and price, dismissing the inclusion of other factors. He stressed that:

infrastructure determines the energy mix and the decision-making on this issue. Infrastructure development, capacity expansion, is a key, vital issue for us.”

Being a landlocked country, Hungary heavily relies on regional infrastructure for diversification. Mr. Szijjártó underscored the critical role of infrastructure development and capacity expansion in shaping the energy mix. He praised successful projects like the Turkish Stream pipeline, which has proven crucial in averting energy shortages.

Despite successes, Minister Szijjártó also acknowledged disappointments, citing instances of abandonment by allies in energy projects.

He expressed hope for cooperation, particularly in regions like southeast Europe, where EU support for infrastructure development is lacking.

The Foreign Minister criticized the European Commission’s skepticism towards natural gas, emphasizing its continued relevance in the energy mix. He warned against prematurely withdrawing from gas, considering it detrimental to economic competitiveness. “We believe that natural gas will continue to be part of our energy mix for many years to come,” he concluded.

Via MTI; Featured Image: fgsz.hu