Hungary’s shadow prime minister held talks with European ambassadors

Opposition Democratic Coalition (DK) MEP Klára Dobrev discussed the ongoing rule-of-law procedure against Hungary, European Union funds, NATO enlargement and other topics with the leaders of the embassies of 25 European countries on Friday.

Corrupt regime – no money?

Addressing an online press conference after her talks, Dobrev said she had made it clear at the meeting that “every single euro cent” Hungary would receive had to go to Hungarian civil groups, small businesses and local councils. EU monies “must never again be entrusted to the corrupt regime which has been stealing a large part of the funds for the last 12 years”, she insisted.

The system of EU funds should be changed, Dobrev said, arguing that this was the only guarantee of the monies going where they were needed.

Noting her own past legislative proposals, Dobrev said her shadow cabinet would join the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), make the courts and the public prosecutor’s office “politically independent”, change the way the Constitutional Court works, which she said currently restricted the rule of law, and restore “balanced reporting and press freedom”.

Read alsoEnd of Putin-Orbán friendship? Russian gas very expensive for Hungary

Concerning her shadow cabinet’s policy of alliances, Dobrev said members of DK considered themselves European and Hungarian citizens and believed that Hungary “unquestionably” belongs in the EU.

As regards Finland’s and Sweden’s plan to join NATO, she said the defence alliance was the only entity that could guarantee Hungary’s security, adding that boosting its defence capabilities was Hungary’s national interest.

Fidesz: Mrs Gyurcsány

Referring to former prime minister Ferenc Gyurcsány, ruling Fidesz said in response that “Mrs Gyurcsány practically admitted today that she is not only working behind the scenes to undermine Hungary but openly runs a roadshow

in an effort to prevent Hungary from getting EU resources and for them to return to power”.

“Preaching about democracy Mrs Gyurcsány has failed to notice that Hungarians have sent clear messages through democratic elections several times that they do not want them,” Fidesz said.

Source: MTI