The prime minister had just returned from the EU-Western Balkans summit in Sofia. In the Bulgarian capital, PM Orbán, a long-time advocate of the Euro-Atlantic integration of the Western Balkans, and EU leaders adopted a declaration aimed at facilitating the region’s EU accession. Back in Budapest yesterday, the PM addressed Hungary’s National Assembly after the official appointment of his fourth government.
“I regard these 20 years between 2010 and 2030 as a single era, because the only way one can govern a country is by making long-term plans,” the prime minister began his speech. He said that as the EU’s economic center slides gradually eastwards, it’s clear that we are Europe’s future.
Shedding some light on the priorities of the fourth Orbán Government, the prime minister recalled the importance of border protection. “Mass migration will remain a threat for Europe in the years to come, hence our defense capabilities must be strengthened, our borders must be protected and the security risks must be handled,” he said. His new government looks at a “European horizon”, he argued, as they serve the nation, but our place is in Europe.
On the composition of the new government, PM Orbán said that nowadays, at the beginning of a new technological era full of unforeseen challenges, it’s crucial to find the perfect candidate for each task, and not the other way around. “Being a member of the government is as much a mission as it is service,” Orbán said adding that he only nominated ministers “whose common passion is Hungary.”
Towards the end of his remarks, the prime minister called upon his freshly appointed ministers to maintain good relations with the nations of Europe because “while for us, Hungary comes first, we also work for a stronger Europe.”
“Now, here’s the opportunity to start something new,” because after eight fruitful years we’re only halfway through the job, the prime minister said in closing.