Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, called on Brussels to end its anti-Israel policy and remove related proposals from the European Union’s agenda. Speaking at a joint press conference with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar in Budapest on Monday, Minister Szijjártó said that such initiatives only serve to inflame tensions.
He cited examples including the suspension of the EU-Israel association agreement, trade restrictions, and excluding Israel from the Horizon programme. “We urge Brussels to drop these proposals,” he said.
Minister Szijjártó emphasized that the world remains in an age of danger, facing serious security challenges, with the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East being most pressing. In both cases, he said, former US President Donald Trump represents the hope for peace. He also criticized efforts to obstruct Trump's peace initiatives and noted the European Union has been sidelined in resolving both crises. “This is no surprise, as those who only stir up tension are not invited where peace is being made,” he added.
The minister reaffirmed Hungary’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Israel, noting a 10 percent increase in bilateral trade and a business forum held with 62 Hungarian and 36 Israeli companies. He also announced the forthcoming opening of the Hungarian Academy in Jerusalem.
He further stressed the vulnerability of Christian communities in the Middle East, underlining Hungary and Israel’s shared stance in defending their security. “Persecution of Christians is unacceptable,” Minister Szijjártó said, pledging continued support for dialogue and joint action.