In his parliament speech, the prime minister stressed that Hungary must avoid becoming entangled in the emerging divide between Eastern and Western economies. "Hungary must not choose sides in this economic cold war," he declared, reaffirming the country’s commitment to securing its future through pragmatic, balanced relationships with both global powers.
Hungary, he argued, must focus on securing the best technologies, investments, and trade partnerships from both the East and West to benefit its economy.
Reflecting on Hungary’s recent economic performance, PM Orbán noted that real wages have grown for 12 consecutive months, inflation was down to 3.4 percent by the end of the summer, and Hungary now ranks 11th among European Union countries in terms of economic growth.
Prime Minister Orbán underscored that while these achievements are significant, the government’s target is to raise GDP growth to between 3 percent and 6 percent. Key policies, including the "worker loan" program supporting small businesses and the continuation of the 13th-month pension, were highlighted as critical steps toward maintaining economic momentum.
Turning to migration, the prime minister delivered a forceful message, criticizing the European Union for penalizing Hungary’s border protection efforts. "Had they followed Hungary’s advice from the start, they wouldn’t be facing the chaos they are now," he remarked, adding, "If Brussels insists on punishing Hungary for defending its borders, we will deliver the migrants knocking on Hungary’s gates straight to the main square of Brussels."
He also reflected on the broader European shift, noting that the era of free movement is coming to an end. He cited Germany’s closure of its borders and the migration laws being drafted in countries like Sweden and Finland as evidence that Hungary’s firm stance on migration is now being vindicated across the continent.
Despite EU criticism, Prime Minister Orbán reaffirmed that Hungary would continue to defend its sovereignty and maintain strict control over migration.
On the subject of the Ukraine war, PM Orbán expressed deep skepticism about the West’s strategy, emphasizing that military solutions would only lead to further suffering. "There is no solution on the battlefield—only death, destruction, and suffering," he said, again calling for an immediate ceasefire and peace negotiations.
He also warned that the current approach will only prolong the conflict. Drawing a parallel with Hungary's stance on migration, Prime Minister Orbán declared, "Just as we were right about migration, we will be right about the war."
Reiterating Hungary’s commitment to peace, he said it has launched the "Friends of Peace" initiative to open dialogue between conflicting parties.
While the prime minister briefly touched on other domestic matters, such as the recent successful flood protection efforts, the focus of his speech was clear: Hungary’s future lies in maintaining economic neutrality, securing its borders, and advocating for peace.
In closing, PM Orbán reinforced Hungary’s goal of defending its sovereignty in all areas. "We can only rely on ourselves," he concluded, reaffirming that Hungary will continue to chart its own course, independent of external pressures and global economic divisions.