“There is no country more important to Hungary’s security than Serbia,” stated PM Orbán, referencing how the Russia-Ukraine conflict has closed off alternative routes, positioning Serbia as indispensable for Hungary’s energy security.
Joined by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić at a press conference, Prime Minister Orbán announced a series of new joint infrastructure projects aimed at deepening energy cooperation between the two nations. These initiatives include investments in oil and gas transportation, electricity infrastructure, natural gas storage, and gas trading.
The two countries also committed to modernizing the Röszke-Horgos border crossing with plans to make it Europe’s most advanced checkpoint. Additionally, a joint electricity exchange will begin operation by year’s end, further strengthening energy ties between Hungary and Serbia.
Prime Minister Orbán and President Vučić also affirmed their commitment to completing the Budapest-Belgrade railway by 2026, a key infrastructure project to improve connectivity and trade.
Regarding Serbia’s EU integration efforts, Prime Minister Orbán emphasized Hungary’s active support during its EU presidency, aimed at accelerating Serbia’s accession. He underscored that “Europe needs Serbia more than Serbia needs the EU,” highlighting that new members like Serbia could bring “new momentum, new dynamics, and new energy” to address Europe’s economic challenges. PM Orbán pledged Hungary’s continued backing for Serbia’s EU membership, which he called essential for Europe’s future growth.
Reflecting on shifts in global politics, such as the recent U.S. election and the rise of sovereignty-focused movements in Europe, Prime Minister Orbán remarked that a “new reality” is emerging, where independent nations have a stronger role.
“The future belongs to sovereign, proud, and success-driven nations,” he said, adding that Hungary and Serbia are responding to this shift by reinforcing their bilateral partnership.
Stressing Hungary and Serbia’s shared stance on peace, PM Orbán stated, “Hungary is on the side of peace,” making clear his government’s intent to remain uninvolved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which he described as “not our war.”
In the face of high energy costs and potential economic fragmentation in Europe, PM Orbán argued for greater connectivity over isolation, describing Serbia as a natural ally in navigating these challenges.
Expressing gratitude to President Vučić, PM Orbán credited him as “the driving force behind the strong Hungarian-Serbian relationship” and acknowledged his dedication to fostering unprecedented levels of cooperation between their nations. The prime minister also conveyed the shared ambition of both Hungarians and Serbs to overcome past limitations and achieve prosperity, remarking, “A prosperous Serbia adds value to Hungary.”
The Hungarian-Serbian Strategic Council meeting, held for the second time, concluded with the signing of seven agreements spanning areas such as cultural cooperation, legal assistance in civil matters, innovation, and EU integration support. PM Orbán and President Vučić also signed a joint political declaration reaffirming their commitment to a deepened strategic partnership.