Mr. Orbán noted that all Western Balkan countries made progress, with some advancing significantly.Continue reading
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Friday radio interview highlighted plans for bold reforms in January, efforts for peace in Ukraine, and Hungary’s economic challenges. He discussed new measures under the economic policy, the need for a Christmas ceasefire, and Hungary’s achievements during its EU presidency, emphasizing future opportunities, writes Index.
Announcement of January Plans
The Prime Minister outlined bold plans for January during his Friday radio interview, signaling a fresh economic start and renewed peace efforts amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. He emphasized Hungary’s readiness for transformative measures and reflected on the country’s achievements under its EU presidency.
Ambitious Economic Reforms
The Prime Minister outlined his ambitious plans for January, calling it a “flying leap” toward success. He emphasized the start of new measures grounded in peace, including economic reforms led by Márton Nagy, Hungary’s new Minister for Economic Affairs. Orbán noted,
we are talking about a man of action. Márton Nagy has created the new economic policy, and it has an action plan.”
He also highlighted that the wage agreement signed by Nagy would take effect on January 1, signaling a fresh economic start for Hungary.
Efforts for Peace in Ukraine
Addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine, Mr. Orbán reiterated his call for peace negotiations, emphasizing the importance of mediation by Türkiye.
Even if there is no big, comprehensive peace, at least there should be a Christmas ceasefire,” he stated.
The PM revealed his efforts to arrange a ceasefire and prisoner exchange during Orthodox Christmas, mentioning conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and challenges with Ukrainian willingness. He stressed that Europe must prioritize ending the conflict for its economic well-being, warning that prolonged war hinders development.
EU Presidency
Viktor Orbán also discussed the challenges posed by Ukraine’s potential EU membership, cautioning that it could harm European farmers and Hungarian agriculture.
Then we have to hold on to save Hungarian agriculture,” he asserted.
Reflecting on Hungary’s EU presidency, he celebrated achievements such as Schengen enlargement and improved competitiveness, saying,
the Hungarian presidency could restore everyone’s faith that the work still had meaning.”
Orbán labeled the European Parliament and Commission “Soros Headquarters,” criticizing them for allegedly serving external interests. He stressed Europe’s need for change, saying,
Brussels believes everything should be done the same way, but I believe there is openness to change. He called for protecting Hungarian agriculture.
The Prime Minister concluded with cautious optimism about change in Washington under President-elect Donald Trump, describing him as a potential force for peace, while underscoring Hungary’s readiness for a transformative year ahead.
Via Index; Featured Image: MTI / Miniszterelnöki Sajtóiroda / Fischer Zoltán