Hungarian Foreign Minister Commends Belarus in New York
Belarus remains a reliable partner in the transit of crude oil, according to Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. In a statement made in New York before a meeting with his Belarussian counterpart, Maxim Ryzhenkov, Szijjártó emphasized the importance of energy supply stability for Hungary.
Szijjártó highlighted the recent challenges faced by Hungary and Slovakia in oil supplies due to Ukrainian restrictions on Russian Lukoil deliveries. However, thanks to coordinated efforts between the Hungarian government, oil and gas company MOL, and the Russian partner, transit deliveries through Ukraine have resumed. The Druzhba pipeline, which runs through Belarus to Ukraine, plays a crucial role in ensuring these deliveries.
In recent days, Hungary received over 3 million tonnes of oil via the Druzhba pipeline, for which Szijjártó expressed gratitude to Belarus for their continued support in transit. The discussion will also include nuclear cooperation, with the expansion of the Paks power plant progressing well.
Szijjártó also addressed the importance of global powers engaging in meaningful negotiations to prevent unnecessary tensions. He emphasized the need for fair international cooperation based on mutual respect, urging countries to avoid forming blocs reminiscent of the Cold War. Hungary’s pragmatic economic and foreign policy aims to serve as a bridge between companies from the East and the West, promoting connectivity and economic growth.
In conclusion, Szijjártó called for G20 countries to support a path towards connectivity instead of reverting to outdated Cold War mentalities. Hungary opposes measures that promote polarization and hinder global free trade, advocating for openness and cooperation among nations for a more prosperous future.
