Defence minister: The security of Hungarians must be guaranteed at the highest possible level

Speaking in Szolnok Minister of Defence Dr. István Simicskó emphasized that in addition to creating the legal conditions, the people’s security can be guaranteed through effective cooperation among the law enforcement and security organizations.

In his speech delivered after a joint exercise conducted by the Hungarian Defence Forces and the Counter-Terrorism Centre, István Simicskó stated that the participants have the task of guaranteeing the security of Hungarians at the highest possible level, adding that it is required because the threat of terrorism has significantly increased in Europe.

Speaking after the exercise held in the former barracks on Thököly Road, the minister noted that under the decision of the National Assembly, the state of terrorist threat, as an element of the special legal order, has been incorporated into the Fundamental Law of Hungary. By declaring this state, if the need arises, the specially trained units of the Hungarian Defence Forces can assist the police with their work.

Mr. Simicskó also pointed out that the Special Forces have been effectively carrying out their security duties all around the world, and the recently established Military Police Center also operates in the interest of strengthening the security of Hungarian people.

István Simicskó said that over the last one and a half years, a close cooperation has developed with the experts of the Counter-Terrorism Centre. In his opinion, the exercise carried out on Tuesday in Szolnok was convincing. He noted that by modelling realistic scenarios, the excellently trained soldiers, policemen and SWAT units become able to effectively counter the terrorists and the potential threats.

The minister of defence expressed hope that the country will not come under attacks of this type, but “they can never be ruled out since this threat is included in today’s European and world political situation”. He pointed out that the forms of warfare have changed, and more must be done for the security of the home front and the civilians, but the experts are well-prepared.