Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky: Hungary deserves more respect

Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky told the press that the war in Ukraine was high on the agenda of the meeting. The minister emphasized that in his speech, he had reiterated Hungary’s unchanged and clear position: it will not contribute to the continuation and escalation of the war, neither with ammunition nor with lethal means. He added that Hungary’s aim is to be left out of this war. The minister said that another important topic of the meeting was the development of defence industry. In connection with this, he underlined that Hungary is striving to rebuild its defence industry, which was dismantled by left-wing governments in the past, and to integrate it into the European defence industry in the coming years.

On the margins of the meeting, the defence minister held bilateral discussions with Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson and Finnish Defence Minister Antti Kaikkonen. Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky pointed out that the ratification of NATO accession was a highlighted topic of both discussions, regarding which he assured his partners that the government of Hungary has been supporting their countries’ aspirations for accession from the beginnings. Unfortunately, however, the politicians of these two countries made unjust and false comments on Hungary in recent years. Hungary deserves more respect, and therefore, we would like to engage in political dialogue as partners and trusting allies once the ratification process is completed – stated the minister.

Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky also held a discussion with United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and discussed with him Hungary’s role in UN-led peacekeeping operations. Speaking about this meeting, Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky said that they are seeking further opportunities for Hungary’s international contribution.

Press release of the Ministry of Defence