In a debate on Hungary in the European Parliament on Wednesday, Viktor Orbán said that the renewal and restructuring of Hungary are based on European principles; he pointed out that questions will naturally arise when there is renewal of such magnitude and momentum.

’The intense interest focused on Hungary is no surprise. Over the past eighteen months we have gone through a period of phenomenally comprehensive, deep and exciting renewal,’ said the Prime Minister at the start of his address in Strasbourg. He underlined that this renewal is justified and urgent, because in 2010 Hungary faced the possibility of economic collapse.

‘We have reduced government debt, our balance of payments is consistently positive, and we have broken up and outlawed paramilitary organisations.’ With reference to the latter, he added that all minorities are protected in Hungary, including the various national minorities, the Roma and the Jewish minority. The Hungarian government will always protect these minorities in the future, he said.

He stated that the renewal and restructuring of Hungary are based on European principles and values, they conform to accepted practices in other Member States, and also to the main documents of the EU . Nevertheless, he said that he considers it natural – just as everyone in Hungary does – that questions will arise when there is renewal of such magnitude and to such a timescale.

Referring to his letter to Commission President José Manuel Barroso on Wednesday, he said that issues raised by the European Commission can be resolved easily, simply and quickly. He added that he expected rapid results from his meeting with Mr. Barroso, to be held the following week.

Hungary is ready to adapt disputed passages

At a press conference after the meeting the Prime Minister stated that no legal proceedings are being initiated in relation to the new Fundamental Law of Hungary.

‘If needed, we are willing to amend the transitional provisions attached to the Fundamental Law,’  he said.

With respect to the possible merger of the Hungarian National Bank (MNB) and the Hungarian Financial Supervisory Authority (PSZÁF) he said that ’This issue is not important for us.’ He added that if the Commission believes the two bodies should not merge, then they will remain separate. In response to a question, Mr. Orbán replied thus: ’I am tough when my country’s interest requires it, and I can come to a compromise when it is in the interest of the Hungarian people.’

(kormany.hu)