An open discussion with the Hungarian Prime Minister marked the end of this round of meetings with European leaders
01.12.2016
An open discussion with the Hungarian Prime Minister marked the end of this round of meetings with European leaders
"Our aims for the presidency which begins
on 1st January is to attempt to bring about
progress on controversial issues
beyond our own views and beliefs”
A meeting between Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Budapest led to a positive discussion on a number of different themes. This included subjects such as the economy and job creations on which Malta and Hungary have similar positions and a common belief that a liberal attitude towards them was needed.
They discussed also themes where both countries have contrasting positions such as immigration. On this, the Maltese Prime Minister said that we are not talking about our own national agenda but about that of the EU Presidency. He argued that he understands Viktor Orban’s position, and he knows that the Hungarian Prime Minister understands Malta’s position.
“This meeting helped us better understand each other”, said Dr Muscat, “we still cannot talk about a final solution, but we must bring progress during Malta’s Presidency”. This progress can only be achieved with an open dialogue.
From his part, Viktor Orban described Prime Minister Joseph Muscat as a friend of Hungary and spoke about the good cooperation that exists between them in the European institutions even though both leaders come from different political families. Viktor Orban praised the work that is being carried out by Malta in preparation for the EU Presidency in the first half of next year and said that Hungary will be an important partner for Malta so that Europe moves closer to positive conclusions.
The two sides also discussed the investments between Malta and Hungary with Victor Orban expressing his satisfaction with Maltese business in Hungary while Dr Muscat mentioned that the direct flights between Malta and Hungary could increase the tourism market between the two countries.
Meanwhile, at the end of these visits in European capitals, in his comments to the media, the Prime Minister stated that these were not the last meetings to be held and further discussions will be taking place in the coming weeks and months. He explained how Malta went to countries with a specific agenda that were pushing in different directions.
“Our aims for the presidency which begins on 1st January is to attempt to bring about progress on controversial issues beyond our own views and beliefs”, said the Prime Minister.
Economic growth and the digital economy are of basic importance but when it comes to issues such as immigration there is a reigning disagreement.
Realistically, the Maltese Presidency must not judge or condemn anyone but understand everyone’s particular situation in order to move forward together.
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