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Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán announced on Wednesday that Prime Minister Péter Magyar will travel to Brussels next week to discuss the unlocking of billions of euros in frozen EU funds. According to Orbán, the visit is a crucial step towards resolving the long-standing dispute between Hungary and the European Union (EU) over the country’s compliance with EU laws and regulations.
Magyar’s visit comes as the EU has been withholding a €10.4 billion post-pandemic recovery tranche, which Hungary must request by 31 August if it wishes to access the funds. Orbán stated that Hungary is actively working on meeting the necessary conditions, which includes the reinstatement of rule-of-law criteria to ensure transparent and corruption-free spending. These “super milestones,” as described by Orbán, are essential for unlocking the frozen funds and restoring trust between the Hungarian government and the EU.
In addition to the post-pandemic recovery fund, Hungary also hopes to gain access to €16 billion in European defence loans under the SAFE programme. This initiative aims to support EU member states in strengthening their military capabilities and contributing to regional security. By securing access to these loans, Hungary can bolster its defence capacity and enhance its participation in European defence initiatives.
Orbán also touched on the sensitive topic of Ukraine’s EU accession, highlighting the need to resolve the Hungarian minority issue before Kyiv’s membership can be discussed. Hungary has long expressed concerns about the potential implications of Ukraine’s accession on its own Hungarian minority living in the neighboring country. Orbán emphasized that finding a solution to this issue is essential for Hungary to support Ukraine’s bid for EU membership.
The upcoming visit to Brussels marks a crucial moment in Hungary’s efforts to repair its relationship with the EU and regain access to frozen funds. With Magyar’s visit, the Hungarian government hopes to demonstrate its commitment to EU values and regulations, paving the way for a more positive and collaborative relationship with its European partners. The outcome of these high-stakes negotiations will not only shape Hungary’s future but also impact the country’s relationships with its EU peers.