"We are witnessing a new chapter in Hungary's industrial history," PM Orbán declared, emphasizing the significance of this new factory as a symbol of the deepening relationship between Hungary and Germany.
The opening of the BMW plant in Debrecen represents the culmination of over two decades of cooperation between Hungarian and German industries. PM Orbán recalled the moment in 1998 when, in talks with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, he envisioned the future of such collaborations, which have proven successful over the years. "This is not just a factory; it's a shared success story, a joint Hungarian-German pride," he noted, reinforcing the idea that the partnership brings not only economic benefits but also a sense of shared achievement between the two nations.
A central theme in PM Orbán’s address was the resilience of Hungary's economy, which, according to the prime minister, is based on a combination of hard work, vision, and strategic cooperation. "We have performance behind us, and strategies that work," he stated confidently, reaffirming Hungary’s growing economic footprint in Europe. The BMW factory is set to create 3,000 high-value jobs in Debrecen, with the prime minister highlighting the investment's role in revitalizing the region. This plant is not just a boon for the automotive industry but also for the education and technical training sectors, with a dedicated BMW training center set to nurture future generations of engineers.
PM Orbán also pointed to Hungary's proactive stance in global economic challenges, remarking on the country's ability to "navigate quick turns and accelerate" in a time of global economic uncertainty. His rhetoric echoed a commitment to flexibility and competitive advantage, with Hungary making its own path in a rapidly changing global market. Yet, he also stressed the importance of the political and economic stability that Hungary offers to foreign investors. "In Hungary, we ensure that businesses can thrive without fear of sudden rule changes," he said, reflecting on Hungary's consistent, business-friendly policies.
However, the prime minister’s speech also touched on the broader geopolitical landscape, where he warned of the risks posed by "unfair competition" from outside the EU, particularly in the automotive sector. With reference to trade imbalances, Prime Minister Orbán lamented the current state of European trade agreements, notably with the United States, where EU-made products face disadvantages compared to American-made goods. "We are at a disadvantage, but that just means we must be better," he said, advocating for greater innovation and excellence in Hungarian manufacturing to compete on the global stage.
PM Orbán’s closing remarks were filled with optimism for Hungary’s future, tying together the importance of collaboration, innovation, and strong leadership. "The road to success is not about isolation but about integration and collaboration," he stated, while celebrating Hungary's role in the wider European economy. As the BMW factory opens its doors, Orbán made it clear that this is only the beginning of what promises to be a successful chapter in Hungary’s economic development.