Speaking to journalists, PM Orbán emphasized that the global economic landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, and Hungary must adapt by embracing a new economic policy. Central to this approach is what he termed "economic neutrality," which he sees as essential for Hungary to thrive in the current international environment.
During the gathering, organized by the Foundation for a Civic Hungary, PM Orbán explained that economic neutrality allows Hungary to maintain balanced and beneficial relationships with all major global players. He asserted that this approach provides a solution for Hungary’s economic challenges, especially in a world increasingly divided into economic and political blocs. As the prime minister put it: “The heart and core of this economic policy is neutrality. I am convinced that economic success in Hungary will come from economic neutrality.”
PM Orbán also discussed Hungary's economic performance, noting that while the country currently ranks in the top third in terms of European growth, this is not enough. “I will only be satisfied when Hungary ranks first in Europe,” he remarked, expressing his ambition to achieve a growth rate of 3 percent to 5 percent in the coming year. Achieving this goal, he argued, is entirely feasible if the right policies are in place.
Addressing key strategic investments, PM Orbán pointed to the recent repurchase of Budapest Airport and the acquisition of Vodafone Hungary as significant steps toward bolstering national economic sovereignty. “The Vodafone acquisition is a historic step, ensuring that Hungary has a large telecommunications company in Hungarian hands,” he stated. He underscored the importance of these acquisitions in ensuring that vital sectors, such as telecommunications, remain under Hungarian ownership and control.
Regarding recent debates between Hungary’s central bank and the government over economic strategy, PM Orbán acknowledged that disagreements over economic policy are natural but stressed that the government and central bank must ultimately align in their approach. “There will always be debates about how to manage the economy,” he said. However, he emphasized that such debates should not create division, alluding to earlier remarks by his political director, Balázs Orbán, about personal disagreements between top officials.
Shifting the conversation to healthcare, PM Orbán highlighted the government’s progress in this sector. He noted that since 2010, Hungary has seen an increase of 8,000 doctors, alongside wage hikes and improvements in healthcare facilities. However, the prime minister conceded that much work remains to be done, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ongoing reforms. “We are moving forward every year in healthcare,” he assured while acknowledging that the work is far from complete.
When asked about the status of EU funds, PM Orbán was quick to point out that Hungary has €12 billion at its disposal, ready to be integrated into the economy. “There’s €12 billion in our account,” he said, dismissing concerns that Hungary is being denied access to EU funds. The challenge, he explained, lies in utilizing these funds efficiently and quickly enough.
On the topic of foreign policy, PM Orbán reiterated his belief in building friendships and alliances across the globe. He argued that Hungary’s interest lies in ensuring that the global economy does not fracture into competing blocs. “Our current position shows that instead of bloc politics, maintaining good relations with all key global players provides the solution for the Hungarian economy,” the prime minister stated.
In response to questions about a leaked peace plan for Ukraine, PM Orbán noted that had the EU adopted parts of his proposal, the current situation might be less dire. He indicated that his peace mission is ongoing, with significant international initiatives expected to emerge in the coming months. “I worked on it all summer,” he revealed, adding that “there will be spectacular initiatives appearing as soon as September.”