During his statement to the press, the Hungarian head of state emphasized that over time it has been proven that “Hungarians can count on Bulgaria, and Bulgaria can count on Hungarians” — whether in economic, political, or defense matters, or even in responding to natural disasters such as wildfires.
Sulyok highlighted that the Bulgarian national community in Hungary serves as a bridge between the two nations, noting that Hungary considers this community a valuable part of the country’s cultural and social fabric. He reaffirmed Hungary’s commitment to supporting Bulgarian-language education for the minority in Hungary and welcomed the recent introduction of Hungarian-language instruction in Bulgaria as a positive development.
The president recalled that Bulgaria joined the Schengen Area this year, and that the final decision was made during Hungary’s EU Council Presidency.
“Our partnership is strengthened not only by close political ties and high-level visits but also by the steadily expanding economic, cultural, and tourism cooperation,” Sulyok said, stressing that Bulgaria is a key partner in natural gas transit, vital for Hungary’s energy security.
He expressed gratitude to Bulgaria for ensuring stable and reliable energy transit, and reaffirmed Hungary’s support for Bulgaria’s OECD membership bid.
Sulyok also underscored the shared goal of supporting EU accession for Western Balkan countries, noting that during Hungary’s previous EU presidency, significant progress had been made in the accession processes of Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, and Moldova.
“The strategic importance of the Western Balkans for the European Union is unquestionable,” he stated, adding that both leaders agreed that war can never be a solution to conflicts — whether in Ukraine or in the Middle East.
“We welcome the peace efforts of the Trump administration, the launch of the Middle East peace process, and the renewal of U.S.–Russian dialogue — discussions that may well take place in Budapest,” Sulyok said. “We are proud of this and look forward to it with great anticipation.”
President Sulyok is on a two-day official visit to Bulgaria. On Sunday, he visited the Bachkovo Monastery and participated in a ceremony in Smolyan marking the Day of Bulgarian–Hungarian Friendship. On Monday, he was received with military honors in Sofia and laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.