Orbán said that Germany’s presence in the region and in Hungary, by investing in the country €6 billion since 2010, has greatly contributed to efforts making the area “the engine driving Europe’s economic growth”. He also reflected on his re-election saying that he “feels a lot of strength to govern Hungary further along the path which proved successful during the past four years”. He talked about his optimism concerning Hungary’s performance the industrial output in March was 10.6% up y.o.y.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine situation he stated that Hungary shares and supports the efforts of Germany and expressed his appreciation towards Merkel’s personal efforts in promoting to reach resolutions through negotiations. Orbán ensured about the protection and security of the 200,000 Ukrainians living in Hungary.
Merkel reminded Orbán that the huge confidence voted by Hungarians to him is inevitably accompanied by huge responsibility. She also assured that Germany would never forget Hungary’s support in 1989 for German refugees. She said Hungary opening up its borders for refugees greatly contributed to Germany’s reunification.
The chancellor also talked about the development of tight economic ties with Hungary as a continuation of the past 25 years. Concerning the Russia-Ukraine crisis she declared that the crucial situation should be resolved through diplomatic negotiations however the European Union would not avoid penal measures when necessary.
