Fidesz: Border protection crucial for freedom of movement
Budapest, September 14 (MTI) – Europe’s ability to protect its borders will be determined on Hungary’s borders, Antal Rogan, the group leader of ruling Fidesz, told a press conference on Monday.
Rogan said Germany’s decision to introduce temporary controls on its border with Austria is proof that the Schengen Agreement guaranteeing the freedom of movement, “including that of Hungarians”, is under threat if Europe is incapable of protecting its borders. The events of the past weekend have vindicated Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Rogan said.
The group leader said it would only be possible to manage the crisis if Europe can decide who it wants to take in and who it has to turn away, which he said would have to be decided “outside Europe”.
Rogan said more and more EU politicians are admitting that Europe cannot take in everyone, which, he said, could be the start of the easing of the continent’s migration pressure.
He said parliament had passed most of the laws needed to manage the crisis but it was still necessary to deploy the army to the border. The army is being given special powers to protect the borders along with the police and the immigration office staff posted there, he added.
Rogan said he “is convinced that the Dublin Agreement, in its current state, has failed” as only Hungary continues to observe it. All international agreements on migration need to be rethought, he argued.
Rogán asked the opposition parties to “put aside their statements supporting the failed policies of Brussels” and support the bills related to border protection and migration in next week’s session of parliament. Rogan also asked “all responsible European leaders” to use all available EU resources to protect the borders where current controls are now deficient.
When asked about Austrian Chancellor Werner Faymann’s recent criticism of the prime minister, the Fidesz group leader said: “In times such as the present there is a need for the Hungarian and Austrian authorities to work together.” He said the chancellor would “have to apologise sooner or later.”
Photo: MTI
Source: http://mtva.hu/hu/hungary-matters