Minister Gulyás highlighted the growing concern over NATO's increased involvement in current conflicts, suggesting a shift in the organization's stance. "War fever has spread to NATO and its commanders," Gulyás revealed, marking a departure from NATO's previously non-active role in the conflict, now considering a mission to Ukraine. This potential escalation has prompted the Hungarian government to prepare for the ramifications of a prolonged conflict. "We are in a very dangerous period. The next six months are crucial in determining whether the world moves towards war or peace," Gulyás explained, emphasizing the gravity of the current international military-political climate and Europe's troubling march towards conflict.
Highlighting a significant concern, Minister Gulyás disclosed forthcoming revelations about severe corruption surrounding the Chain Bridge renovation, tracing malfeasance back to the Budapest City Hall. "A KEHI report this Friday will bring to light substantial corruption abuses," he announced, emphasizing the government's commitment to transparency and integrity.
On the EP’s Migration Pact, Gulyás firmly stated, "Hungary will not partake in any migrant distribution mechanism, nor will we make payments to anyone," reinforcing Hungary's steadfast position on sovereignty and migration policy.
Finance Minister Mihály Varga acknowledged the shadow of war looming over Hungary's economic planning. "We are in a wartime situation," Varga noted, detailing the government's economic trajectory designed with the conflict in mind. Despite global challenges, he remains optimistic about Hungary's economic recovery and growth, anticipating a return to a growth path with an approximate 2.5% GDP increase this year, and 4.1% in 2025. "The growth pace is expected to accelerate in the second half of the year," Varga added, considering the sluggish recovery of the EU and Germany's economic struggles.
In the agricultural realm, Minister István Nagy underscored the government's vigilance against importing counterfeit honey from China, ensuring the safety of Hungarian honey amid global counterfeiting threats. Furthermore, Nagy detailed the implementation of an import ban on 24 products, directly responding to challenges posed by Ukrainian imports. He also criticized the EU's Green Deal, claiming it has betrayed Hungarian farmers and favored Ukrainian oligarchs, exacerbating pressures on the agricultural sector.
Government spokeswoman Eszter Vitályos said that the government is introducing a groundbreaking 108-billion-forint home renovation program aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, signaling a move towards sustainable development supported by EU funds.
Nagy also announced significant funding for the processing industry and livestock farming sectors, affirming the government's backing of 44 forms of support for farmers, which underscores a comprehensive strategy to fortify Hungary's agricultural backbone.
The Government Info session touched on Hungary's criticisms of EU policies, particularly the Green Deal, with Nagy lamenting the loss of competitiveness among European farmers. Gulyás criticized the EU's new migration pact, marking a strong refusal to accept imposed quotas, which reflects Hungary's broader strategy of safeguarding national interests and maintaining control over its borders.
The government's proactive measures, including strategic investment reallocations and enhanced fiscal policies, aim to ensure a robust economic trajectory for Hungary.