Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán hailed Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić as the “champion of Balkan stability” during a press conference in Budapest. Following their talks, Orbán stressed that Serbia’s stability is crucial to the entire region and praised Vučić’s strong leadership in maintaining resilience.
Earlier, Vučić received Hungary’s highest state honor for strengthening bilateral ties. Orbán highlighted the historical connection between the two nations, emphasizing shared challenges and cooperation in migration policy, military security, and energy stability. He revealed that construction is underway for a 300-kilometer oil pipeline linking both countries, boosting energy independence.
Hungary’s energy reliance on Serbia has grown significantly, with 7.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas received in 2023—a two-billion increase from the previous year. Talks are also in progress to double electricity exchange capacity between the nations.
Orbán applauded Serbia’s economic resilience, citing its impressive 9% real wage growth and 4% economic expansion. He pointed out Serbia’s diversified trade strategy, with 40% of its foreign trade occurring outside the EU, as a model for Hungary. He also warned against foreign interference in Serbia, Slovakia, or other neighboring states, vowing to defend national sovereignty.
Turning to global affairs, Orbán argued that the Russo-Ukrainian war’s resolution will be dictated by major world powers rather than direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow. He criticized European leaders for siding with war instead of pushing for diplomacy, warning that Europe risks being sidelined in global decisions on trade, technology, and energy.
Wrapping up, Orbán referenced the film Gladiator, saying, “Whatever comes out of these gates, we’ve got a better chance of survival if we work together.” He urged Hungary and Serbia to stand united as they navigate an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.
