Migration Policy in Brussels Poses Challenges for North African Countries
Brussels Urged to End Pro-Migration Policies, Says Hungarian Foreign Minister
Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Péter Szijjártó, called on Brussels to immediately stop its pro-migration policies, stating that they are causing significant difficulties for both European and North African countries. The minister made these remarks during a press conference in Budapest following a meeting of the Hungarian-Tunisian Joint Economic Committee.
During the joint press conference with his Tunisian counterpart, Nabil Ammar, Szijjártó highlighted that Europe faces two major security challenges simultaneously – the war in the east and the flow of migrants from the south. The minister also drew attention to the dramatic rise in food prices and the severe crisis in grain supply in Tunisia and other parts of the world. He warned that the armed conflict in Ukraine could further destabilize already fragile regions, leading to additional security challenges.
Szijjártó emphasized that most countries outside of the European and transatlantic sphere desire peace as soon as possible. However, he pointed out that migration is taking on a new dynamic, as the mandatory resettlement quota imposed by Brussels practically acts as an invitation to migrants. This policy not only endangers European countries but also puts North African countries, located on the migration routes, in an extremely difficult situation, with the risk of being overrun by migrants without respect for their sovereignty and laws.
The Hungarian minister firmly called on the European Commission to put an immediate end to this violent and pro-migration policy. He also advocated for increased support to Tunisia in protecting its borders, stating that the Hungarian government is ready to provide this support through bilateral cooperation if necessary.
On a positive note, Szijjártó highlighted the growing trade turnover between Hungary and Tunisia, which reached a record high of 260 million euros last year. He anticipated a 22 percent increase this year, emphasizing the great opportunities for Hungarian companies in various sectors, including agriculture, food, medical equipment, and water management, among others. Additionally, the minister announced an increase in the number of scholarships for Tunisian students at Hungarian universities, responding to the high interest in the program.
The call for ending pro-migration policies aligns with Hungary’s previous stance on migration, as the country has been vocal in its rejection of the European Union’s migrant quota system. This latest appeal by Hungary’s Foreign Minister highlights the ongoing concerns and challenges Europe faces regarding migration and the need for a reevaluation of current policies.
