Anita Orban, Hungary’s nominee for the position of Foreign Minister, has expressed the country’s desire for equal and transparent relations with Russia, despite acknowledging the risks posed by Russian policies to Hungary and Europe. Orban made these comments during a parliamentary committee hearing that evaluated her candidacy.
“Russia will remain a partner, but our relations cannot be based on unilateral dependence,” Orban stated. She further emphasized that the current geopolitical landscape clearly indicates that Russia’s actions present a security threat to both Hungary and Europe.
Orban also outlined her primary objective as restoring trust within Hungary, which she claims has been undermined by the previous administration. She stressed the need for legislation that would ensure the independence of Hungary’s judiciary, enhance transparency in government contracts, combat corruption, and improve oversight of European Union funds.
Additionally, Orban confirmed that Hungary would not send troops or weapons to Ukraine. She also stated that her country would refrain from using its veto power within the European Union as a means of political leverage.
In related developments, Istvan Kapitany, the candidate for the Minister of Economy and Energy, announced plans to reassess the funding and implementation of the Paks nuclear power plant expansion project, which involves the Russian state company Rosatom as the general contractor. This comes shortly after Peter Madyar officially assumed the role of Prime Minister of Hungary on May 9.
Anita Orban, Hungary's Foreign Minister nominee, seeks to establish balanced relations with Russia while addressing internal issues such as judicial independence and corruption. Her statements reflect a shift in Hungary's foreign policy approach amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.