Many EU politicians praise Hungary’s humanitarian efforts in the wake of the Ukrainian war. Did you notice this change of tone at the council meeting?
We have indeed grown unaccustomed to words of praise lately. Now, however, we began with numerous colleagues praising the countries at the front for the aid provided, including Hungary. Our efforts are recognized by the international community, so the next step would be to suspend the ideological debates that are withholding the loans from the recovery funds. It has become unacceptable for the European Commission to ignore the effects of the war on the countries at the front.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán wrote a letter to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen requesting approval for the Hungarian recovery funds as soon as possible. Were there any reactions to this from the European Ministers?
The process of the Council formation is more rigid; I think this letter was a surprise to many colleagues. Not to mention that we sent this to the Commission, and not the Council, which represents the Member States. The point is: the Hungarian recovery program must be accepted as soon as possible. We are now seizing the opportunity to draw these loans as Hungary has been extraordinarily burdened by this war. We have accepted and fully provided for over half a million refugees – and this number will only grow. We expect flexibility from the Commision; they must make EU resources available to finance the reception and care of refugees. All this of course does not mean that we will take apart the recovery fund, but we must address this extraordinary situation. Emergencies require emergency measures. It would be emblematic if the European Commission were to give a positive answer – after all, not only did the Hungarian people work hard for this money, but they are also setting an example for all of Europe by helping those in need. I believe that the Von der Leyen Commission stands at a moral crossroads.
The time is now to put an end to the ideological attacks and political revenge – we are facing a real war. Brussels must support Member States, not attack them.