Hungary’s FM slams EU ‘interference’ in Georgia

Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Péter Szijjártó, has condemned what he described as Brussels’ interference in Georgia’s internal affairs, claiming the Georgian government had Budapest’s “full support” despite the European Union’s stance.

Speaking at a joint press conference with his Georgian counterpart, Maka Botchorishvili, Szijjártó said that Georgia served as an example of how “an international, liberal, global dictatorship” attempted to exert pressure on governments pursuing nationalist policies.

“Georgia is facing pressure because it prioritises national interests and upholds conservative and Christian values,” Szijjártó said. “Brussels considers it ideal when liberal parties win, but if a national government comes to power, it is labelled a crisis. This double standard is unacceptable.”

The Hungarian minister also welcomed the reported reduction in funding for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), claiming that such financial sources had been used to influence internal politics in various countries. He called for an investigation into individuals and organisations allegedly involved in advancing foreign interests.

Szijjártó reiterated Hungary’s opposition to EU policies regarding Georgia, particularly the proposal to terminate visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats. “We have vetoed this decision and will continue to do so in the future. Georgia has our unwavering support,” he noted.
The Hungarian official also highlighted economic ties between the two nations, revealing that bilateral trade amounted to $100 million and is expected to grow by 20% this year. He further announced plans for a high-level summit between Budapest and Tbilisi in June, alongside a meeting of a joint economic commission.