Independence Day in Budapest – Hungary-US relations expected to undergo revival

It is not a stretch to say that bilateral relations between Hungary and the United States could be expected to undergo a genuine revival in the coming period, the foreign minister said on Tuesday, marking Fourth of July, in Budapest.

Péter Szijjártó addressed a reception hosted by the US Embassy to celebrate Independence Day which was also addressed by David B. Cornstein, the new US ambassador to Hungary.

Hungarians, just like the American people, are real freedom fighters; they both value freedom and independence, cause they had to fight so many times in history, the minister said.

Speaking about the present, Szijjártó noted a similarity in the approach of the international press towards the two countries’ governments, saying that

Hungary “will never join the choir of those Europeans” who he said had “made it a routine” to criticise the United States.

The Hungarian government will continue to have a balanced approach towards any decisions taken by the US government concerning foreign and domestic affairs, he said.

The minister said

he fully understood US President Donald Trump’s position on the protection of America’s borders, adding that he agreed with the principle that it is a country’s sovereign right to decide whom it allows to enter its territory.

On the topic of bilateral business relations, Szijjártó noted that the United States is the most important market for Hungary’s exports outside Europe. The 1,700 US companies doing business in Hungary employ more than 100,000 people, the minister said.

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In the area of military relations, Szijjártó highlighted Hungary’s support to Washington in the form of troops serving in the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State terrorist group, as well as on missions in Afghanistan and the western Balkans.

Addressing the event, David B. Cornstein emphasised the importance of July 4th for generations of Americans, saying that people on this day celebrate freedom and the rule of law, as well as the freedom of speech, press and religion.

The ambassador, who presented his credentials to President János Áder on June 25, said

he will work together with Hungary towards building the best ever bilateral relations with the country.

Photo: MTI

Source: MTI