Hongaars voorzitterschap wil economische crisis in Europees verband aanpakken (en)

Press release of the Hungarian Ministry of National Development

Hungarian Presidency aims to create a "strong Europe" to overcome the effects of the economic crisis

On 26 January 2011, Minister of National Development, Dr Tamás Fellegi, presented the programme of the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union, in front of three standing committees of the European Parliament in Brussels. During the hearings, the minister gave account of energy, regional development and climate policy priorities. The European Parliament’s committees supported the programmes compiled in these special fields.

During the hearings, Dr Tamás Fellegi emphasised every initiative and proposal made by the Hungarian Presidency, aimed at the creation of a strong Europe to overcome the effects of the economic crisis. He stressed Hungary’s readiness to cooperate with the institutions of the European Union, including the European Parliament in the interest of successful programme implementation.

In the morning, the minister outlined the climate change policy plans to the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee (ENVI). At the hearing, he described the continuation of successful climate protection negotiations as the focus of effort. Resolute action by the European Union may be instrumental in achieving the earliest possible agreement on the post-2012 global climate regime. Making a success of the European Union’s own climate change programme could well improve the European economy’s competitiveness.

In the afternoon, the minister gave a summary of the energy-related priorities to the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE). This body was also informed of the climate change concepts. Dr Tamás Fellegi set the development of a uniform and effective common energy policy, and the creation of energy security that guarantees payable services as the priority objectives in this field. The thematic session of the European Council to be held on 4 February 2011, will offer an excellent opportunity for consultation over the long-term plans.

In front of the Regional Development Committee (REGI), Dr Tamás Fellegi outlined the objectives related to regional development policy. In this field the key question is, if progress can be made in the debate over the future directions of Cohesion Policy. If reasonable updates to increase its efficiency and effectiveness, Cohesion Policy can be a useful instrument in helping the convergence of the regions falling behind.

At his hearing before the Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN), Minister of State, Dr Pál Völner, gave account of the transport-related objectives on 25 January 2011, while Minister of State, Dr Zsolt Nyitrai, detailed the info-communication objectives before the ITRE, on 26 January 2011.

Each of the standing committees was in favour of the Hungarian Presidency’s programme and priorities.

Budapest, 27 January 2011