The European Political Community (EPC) Summit, which gathered over forty European and global leaders at the Puskás Arena, was followed by an informal EUCO summit, underscoring Budapest’s role in European diplomacy. Reflecting on these events, Orbán stated, “Hungarian diplomacy has not been this strong in a hundred years,” highlighting the country’s growing influence.
PM Orbán attributed part of the summit’s relevance to Donald Trump’s recent U.S. presidential victory, which he said reflects a shift in global attitudes. “The timing was ideal…often such meetings risk fading into indifference, but this time, everyone sensed the world was about to change,” Prime Minister Orbán explained. He noted that President Trump’s win indicated widespread discontent with issues like “war, migration, and gender debates,” creating an “intellectual energy” among European leaders about the future of policy direction.
The EPC Summit’s significant achievement was the adoption of the Budapest Declaration, a document outlining measures to improve European competitiveness. The prime minister emphasized the declaration’s benefits for Hungarian families, especially in keeping energy prices low. Hungary, he noted, already has some of Europe’s lowest gas and electricity costs. The declaration’s primary goals include reducing energy prices across Europe within six months and launching an “anti-bureaucratic revolution” to eliminate regulations that hinder competition. “The number of rules that limit free competition must be drastically reduced,” Orbán stated, with reforms expected swiftly.
Discussing Hungary’s relationship with the United States under Trump’s leadership, PM Orbán emphasized that Trump is “not a savior but a fellow warrior.” While optimistic about U.S.-Hungarian ties, he reminded viewers, “It is up to us, the Hungarian government, to stand up for Hungarian interests.” He added, “We are no longer alone—America and its government stand with us,” signaling that this alignment supports Hungary’s pursuit of peace and prosperity.
On the domestic front, the prime minister outlined a “peace budget” focused on economic growth over military spending. This budget includes initiatives such as a workers’ loan program, expanded housing support, and increased funding for small businesses. “This budget introduces a development program like never before,” he stated, confirming it will also continue the 13th-month pension and double family support incentives. The peace budget, PM Orbán emphasized, aims to foster economic stability and growth for ordinary Hungarians.
Addressing EU challenges, PM Orbán advocated for unity in improving competitiveness. Citing the Draghi Report, he noted that while Hungary’s approach often diverges from the European mainstream, it could now inspire necessary reforms. As Hungary’s EU presidency enters its final two months, PM Orbán predicted an “exciting” period focused on strengthening European economies.
To close, PM Orbán shared an anecdote about his first call with Trump following the election. While at home with his wife, he received an unexpected call from Trump, eager to discuss future cooperation—a moment, he recounted, that highlighted the directness of their rapport and hinted at deeper U.S.-Hungarian collaboration ahead.