In the current situation, it is especially important that Serbian authorities demonstrate impartiality and that they make it clear, double standards are not applied when it comes to dealing with Hungarian and Serbian perpetrators and victims, Foreign Minister János Martonyi stated February 28, 2013.

In his written response to a question submitted by a Jobbik MP, who inquired about the Hungarian Government's actions to protect Hungarians living in Vojvodina against violent acts, János Martonyi said that such acts severely compromise the safety of ethnic Hungarian communities in Vojvodina.

The Hungarian Foreign Minister welcomed that, on February 16, Serbian Prime Minister Ivica Dačić and President of the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians István Pásztor concluded an agreement on reinforcing public security in Vojvodina and accelerating the investigation procedure on the violent acts committed against ethnic Hungarians in Vojvodina.

Minister Martonyi stated that Hungary expects rapid and resolute action on the part of the Serbian authorities to investigate these attacks, prosecute the perpetrators and prevent future attacks from taking place. In the current situation, it is especially important that Serbian authorities demonstrate impartiality and that they make it clear, double standards are not applied when it comes to dealing with Hungarian and Serbian perpetrators and victims, Martonyi said.

The Hungarian Foreign Minister recalled that it was a significant achievement in Hungarian-Serbian bilateral relations when they concluded an agreement – during the official visit of Serbian President Tomislav Nikolić in Budapest last November – on the joint commemoration of Hungarian and Serbian victims in Vojvodina during the Second World War.

Minister Martonyi declared that Hungary was ready for this „noble gesture” and he expressed his hope that „the political forces who are opposed to historical reconciliation” would not be able to threaten the success of this enterprise through violent acts against ethnic Hungarians.

(Ministry of Foreign Affairs)