Billionaire Mészáros reveals bold expansion plans abroad, deep friendship with Orbán and triumph over criticism!
In an exclusive interview, Lőrinc Mészáros, the wealthiest man in Hungary, discussed the strategic goal of expanding the group’s development abroad, his friendship with Viktor Orbán, and his reaction to criticism.
In the interview with Index, Lőrinc Mészáros emphasised that he is not in competition with his friend Sándor Csányi to be the richest man in the country but they do compete in sectors such as banking.
He also touched upon his close relationship with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and commented on János Lázár’s assertion that the country needs more figures like himself and László Szijj.
Mészáros and Viktor Orbán
In response to a question about where he would be without his connection to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Mészáros emphasised the foundation of their relationship as one built on trust and friendship. He acknowledged their differing paths with Orbán’s career in politics since 1989 and his own as an entrepreneur since 1992.
Mészáros highlighted his experience as a mayor of Felcsút and his commitment to economic activities alongside public service. He also underscored the gradual progression of his economic development over 32 years, navigating through various scales of entrepreneurship and overcoming challenges along the way.
During the period following the change of regime in Hungary up to the first Orbán government which took place from 1998 to 2002, Mészáros describes his early entrepreneurial journey as a learning process. Coming from a background where business ownership was unfamiliar under communism, Mészáros and his colleagues ventured into entrepreneurship in 1992. In the interview, he also discusses his relationship with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, mentioning their discussions on sports, family and politics.
The story of Mészáros’ success
Initially focusing on municipal gas network construction, they gradually expanded their operations, eventually becoming general contractors. Despite the challenges of starting, their efforts contributed significantly to infrastructure development in the country during the 1990s.
During the early 2000s, Lőrinc Mészáros’ company faced a downturn, coinciding with the socialist government’s tenure. However, around 2007-2008, the company began to recover, securing significant contracts for infrastructure construction despite facing challenges under socialist rule.
Mészáros reflects on how right-wing entrepreneurs (including himself) felt persecuted during this period with frequent inspections and obstacles. Following the 2010 elections and the formation of the Orbán government, Mészáros acknowledges the government’s clear and effective policies aimed at fostering both foreign and Hungarian entrepreneurship.
Despite the risk of empowering economic players that could potentially challenge the government, the aim was to create a healthy competitive environment domestically and internationally.
Lőrinc Mészáros against criticism
In the interview, Mészáros also reflected on the various labels and criticism he has faced, including being referred to as a “billionaire gas fitter”, an oligarch and Orbán‘s associate. Despite the jokes and criticism, he remains focused on his work and development strategies.
Lőrinc Mészáros attributes his success to hard work and efficiency, rather than simply long hours. He also emphasised reinvesting profits into his business for growth.
Politicans and Lőrinc Mészáros
Regarding comments from government officials like János Lázár about needing more figures like him, Mészáros appreciates the sentiment and acknowledges the support of those like Lázár who advocate for Hungarian businesses.
On the unexpected involvement of Péter Magyar in a legal case, Mészáros distances himself, stating that he does not know Magyar personally and does not involve himself in political matters. Mészáros sees his role as focusing on the success of his companies amidst public scrutiny and criticism.
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