The Hungarian capital hosted an intergovernmental summit, welcoming North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, who was received by Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
A key topic of discussion was illegal migration. Earlier, Orban wrote on social media platform X:
We cannot protect the people of Europe from illegal migration without the support of the Western Balkan countries. North-Macedonia is one of our most important partners in this respect. Thank you for your support, Prime Minister!
Hungary Stands for Peace
At the press conference following the meeting, PM Orban emphasized that all of Europe has been living in the shadow of war for three years. He expressed hope that peace would soon replace war.
Viktor Orban informed the North Macedonian prime minister that Hungary welcomes the initiation of U.S.-Russia negotiations.
"We Hungarians have a vested interest in the success of these talks," he added.
I also informed Mr. Prime Minister that we disagree with certain EU member states—who are also allies and friends—who decided that Ukraine must continue the war,
Orban stressed, highlighting: "We believe continuing the war is wrong, dangerous, and a mistake. On Thursday, we will discuss this in Brussels."
I welcomed the UN peace resolutions, pointing out that Hungary and North Macedonia supported the U.S. proposal, which was later adopted by the UN Security Council,
he noted.
Key Topic: Migration
Migration was a significant topic during the discussions. Hungary is grateful to North Macedonia for protecting its borders, which in turn helps protect Hungary as well.
The more effectively they protect their borders, the fewer migrants attack Hungary’s southern border. I informed the North Macedonian government that we reject the EU’s migration pact and will never accept it,
Orban stated. "For this, we must pay penalties in the name of European 'friendship'," he added with sarcasm.
Hungary continues to support North Macedonia’s EU integration. Orban criticized the shamefully slow progress of the accession process, emphasizing that the responsibility lies with the EU member states, not North Macedonia.
I see no ability within the EU to improve competitiveness—only expansion can help. Every past enlargement has improved the EU’s competitiveness, including Hungary’s accession,
Orban declared.