PM Orbán reiterated that the government is focused on economic stability and growth, with a particular emphasis on maintaining Hungary’s financial sovereignty. He stated that the country is poised to benefit from a potential positive global economic shift but must also contend with external pressures from the European Union.
"We have taken the bet on peace this year, which will lead to economic recovery," the prime minister said, highlighting that Hungary has suffered annual losses of approximately €7 billion due to the war in Ukraine. He pointed to the government's 21-point economic action plan and the philosophy of economic neutrality as key drivers for recovery.
With state-issued bonds paying out significant returns to households, he emphasized that this financial boost must be reinvested into the economy. "We have just paid out 480 billion forints in interest to Hungarian families, and in March, another 300 billion will follow," PM Orbán explained, stating that nearly 800,000 families will benefit from these payments. This liquidity, he argued, will further strengthen the middle class and boost consumption.
The prime minister also addressed Hungary’s ongoing disputes with the European Union, particularly concerning sovereignty and economic policies. He listed four major conflicts with Brussels: migration, child protection laws, pension security, and energy price caps. He expressed skepticism that the EU’s proposed competitiveness pact would provide real benefits, predicting continued high energy prices as a barrier to European economic recovery.
He warned that while Hungary’s government remains committed to defending national interests, Brussels appears determined to challenge our policies. "Brussels has money and power, and we must not underestimate them," PM Orbán said, adding that these disputes are likely to intensify.
PM Orbán also highlighted the recent revelations about USAID-funded political activities in Hungary, calling it a clear example of foreign interference. He revealed that the U.S. government had directly financed organizations and individuals aiming to influence Hungarian politics. "Lists have surfaced showing who was funded and how using American taxpayer money," he stated, suggesting that tens of millions of dollars were used for political manipulation.
He further noted that certain American celebrities were reportedly paid to endorse pro-war positions, raising concerns about coordinated international influence campaigns. In response, he emphasized that the Hungarian government would conduct a thorough investigation and implement protective measures. "Uncovering this interference will be one of the most important tasks of the spring," he declared.
Moreover, PM Orbán pointed out that following the cut in American funding, 63 international organizations have now petitioned Brussels to replace the lost financial support. He warned that "rolling dollars could soon be replaced by rolling euros," signaling potential new challenges ahead.
As Hungary prepares for the upcoming political season, PM Orbán made it clear that both economic stability and national sovereignty are at stake. With the prime minister’s annual State of the Nation speech approaching, he is expected to elaborate on these themes, providing further insights into the government’s strategy.
While he acknowledged that external pressures—both from Brussels and Washington—are unlikely to ease, he expressed confidence in Hungary’s ability to navigate these challenges. "We must remain steadfast and prepared. Brussels cannot ignore the will of the people, and we will ensure that our voice is heard," he concluded.