Security is crucial for Hungary
Security is of crucial importance for Hungary and its people. Hungary's NATO membership ensures security not only for the country but also for the broader region, stated President Novák during a press briefing at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.
Katalin Novák, who held discussions with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, emphasized while speaking to journalists that peace and stability are of fundamental importance for Hungary.
Hungary contributes to the success of NATO missions, strengthens its defence, and enhances its military capabilities. It will soon fulfil its commitment to allocate two percent of its GDP to defence expenditures. Last but not least, the presence of Hungarian soldiers contributes to the peace and stability of the Western Balkan region - highlighted the President.
Katalin Novák emphasized that Hungary supports Ukraine's right to self-defence and continues to provide humanitarian assistance to the country. She stated that Hungary condemns Russia's aggression against independent Ukraine and finds it unacceptable.
"However, the most crucial aspect is finding the paths to peace. It is essential to explore how to come to the negotiating table and achieve a ceasefire," she said.
She emphasized that there cannot be a relationship between Hungary and Russia that undermines Hungary’s relationships with its allies and the fulfilment of commitments within both NATO and the European Union frameworks.
Regarding the conflict in the Middle East, she emphasized that Hungary expresses its deepest solidarity with Israel and condemns the brutal attacks against it. According to her, these events underscore the importance of stability in this region.
Responding to a journalist's question about Sweden's NATO accession, she stated that the country's membership would contribute to strengthening NATO, and consequently, to collective security.
Regarding the situation of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia, she stressed that the situation of national minorities in Ukraine is of particular importance to Hungary, with special consideration for the Hungarian national minority.
"Respecting minority rights is of paramount importance, especially when a country has ambitions to join our alliances," she articulated. For Hungary, this is a crucial issue, the resolution of which is necessary to maintain our country’s supportive stance in Ukraine's challenging struggle, added President Novák during her press briefing.