Orban's Call for EU Market Cooperation Amidst Divisive Issues

Hungarian PM Viktor Orban emphasized the need for the European Union to focus on closer cooperation in markets and defense, while avoiding political issues like migration. Speaking at a conference in Italy, Orban highlighted his visits to Kyiv and Moscow, underlining the importance of open communication to end the Ukraine war.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stressed the importance of closer cooperation on markets and defense within the European Union, while steering clear of political issues such as migration, during a speech on Friday.

Speaking at a conference in Cernobbio, Italy, Orban remarked, "There are issues, even existential issues, to which we don't have common answers; this is war and peace, migration, gender, labor-based society, full employment." The Hungarian leader added, "If you force us to come together on issues we don't agree, you disintegrate the European Union."

Orban referenced his visits to Kyiv and Moscow earlier this year. These visits, criticized by some EU partners, led him to believe there was no intention from either side to reach a ceasefire. He argued that open communication lines remain essential for achieving peace in Ukraine. Orban, who has maintained Hungary's economic ties with Russia, emphasized the need for economic cooperation, including with nations under sanctions when possible.

(With inputs from agencies.)