Austria and Hungary have a common position regarding the war in Ukraine

We live in dangerous times, so it is important that our neighbors stay connected to each other. Joint press conference with Austrian Defense Minister Claudia Tanner in Budapest.

At the meeting, the situation in Ukraine was also discussed. Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky emphasized that the Hungarian position is well known.

We are on the side of peace. We do not send weapons into conflict. In this regard, neutral Austria also does not send weapons to the war.

But Austria and Hungary both host refugees, and both countries send humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The politician emphasized that the conversation specifically discussed the situation in the Western Balkans. Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky said the stability of these countries is very important. Recent history shows that special attention must be paid to the people of this region. He said the so-called Balkan route is most affected by illegal immigration. It was therefore agreed that each country should focus on migrant flows further south.

The minister emphasized that Austria, as a neutral country, plays an important role in regional security, like the KFOR Kosovo mission led by the Hungarian commander last year and the EUFOR Altea mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A Hungarian general will take command next year, and Hungarian participation is also important.

At a press conference, the Austrian Defense Minister said the cooperation between the two countries was excellent, including their involvement in seven joint missions abroad.

Klaudia Tanner pointed out that threats posed by war in Ukraine must take into account not only those related to conventional warfare, but also the interplay of hybrid threats. It was also felt in Hungary, stressing the need to work with other neighboring countries to contain immigration. One solution, she said, is to strengthen the Western Balkans and help them integrate into the European Union.

Klaudia Tanner believes the EU should be more active in cooperating with NATO. Because without unity, it opens the door to other threats.

Via mti.hu, featured image: Tibor Illyés/MTI