Our Common Denominator is Peace

Ongoing conflicts in several parts of the world pose serious security challenges. According to Hungary’s position, the stability of Europe is unimaginable without the stability of the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa). It is therefore important to form closer cooperation to be able to tackle global and regional challenges – said the minister. The defence minister also underlined that Hungary is committed to providing stability for the MENA region. Therefore, we are constantly expanding our presence in the region and cooperate with those countries that are open to stability and partnership, such as Bahrain. He added that we highly appreciate the efforts of the Persian Gulf country for the stability of the Middle East region.

Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky pointed out that the cooperation between our countries is of key importance not only for regional but also for global security. Our goal is to further extend our bilateral relations, paying special attention to economic, security and humanitarian cooperation. Bahrain and Hungary, as members of the global pro-peace majority, emphasize dialogue, cooperation and the peaceful settlement of conflicts. The growing competition among great powers carries the risk of the world being divided into blocs again. I and my partner agree that this can be counterbalanced with effective cooperation based on mutual respect and the provision of connections – concluded the minister.

During his visit, the defence minister also negotiated with His Majesty Lieutenant General Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor and Commander of Bahrain’s Royal Guard (in the photo above), about cooperation possibilities that would strengthen Hungary, calling his attention to the products of Hungarian military industry and inviting him to the Kincsem Prize race.

“In the era of wars, the pro-peace majority of the world has to join forces as today, there is nothing more important than peace and security. We highly appreciate the efforts of the Persian Gulf country Bahrain for the stability of the region” – posted Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky on his social media profile.

The ongoing conflicts in several parts of the world pose serious security challenges to Hungary, thus, dialogue has a distinguished significance – said the defence minister on Sunday in Bahrain, where he participated in the 20th Regional Security Forum. In the video posted on his social media profile, Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky said that he had reaffirmed the Hungarian position on the war at the meeting. Ceasefire and peace talks are needed because only these can be a solution to the “bloody conflict” going on for more than a thousand days – said the minister referring to the Russo-Ukrainian War. He said that further escalation carries dangers, which have several signs. He emphasized that the war must be stopped and peace must be established.

The defence minister stated that it is a great honour for him to represent Hungary in the panel discussion with American, Canadian and Brazilian participants. “Peace requires strength, we carry on with the work” – said the minister in conclusion.