The foreign minister has said that Hungary is greatly appreciative of the African countries that have never contributed to Europe’s migration pressure, and have therefore helped improve the continent’s security.
Peter Szijjarto made the remarks following talks with his Cape Verde counterpart Luis Filipe Tavares in Budapest on Thursday.
Minister Szijjártó said those who encourage the emergence of new migration waves only make it easier for terrorists to return to Europe. The minister insisted that after its defeat at the hands of the international coalition, the Islamic State terrorist group has changed its tactics and begun sending its mercenaries back to their countries of origin in Europe.
The minister said countries that do not want to become sending or transit countries when it comes to migration and take border protection seriously should be supported. Cape Verde, he said, was one of these countries.
Minister Szijjártó added that Hungary, as part of its policy of opening to the south, places special emphasis on strengthening its ties with its partner countries in Africa. He said Cape Verde was proud of its Christian identity and was committed to preserving its national, cultural and religious heritage. It also pursues a responsible migration policy.
The minister said that it was important for Europe to cooperate “with African countries that do not push for the creation of so-called legal migration channels".