‘In the midst of global turmoil and conflict, Hungary prioritizes peace,’ Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky on Thursday in Budapest, following discussions with defence ministers from the Central European Defence Cooperation (CEDC).
The minister emphasized Hungary’s clear stance on the Ukrainian conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and peace. He added that especially as the risk of escalation grows, it is crucial for Hungary to advocate for this perspective on all forums. Regarding the CEDC, Szalay-Bobrovniczky highlighted the shared history, roots, and geographical proximity of the participating countries, underlining the importance of open and honest dialogue on the region’s key issues.
He stressed Hungary’s interest in maintaining dialogue and preserving the region’s historically influential role. He noted the necessity of Central Europe’s voice and opinion to be heard, especially now. The CEDC, established in 2010, aims to contribute to regional security reinforcement. Initiated by Austria, the cooperation includes Austria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Slovenia. Hungary currently holds the rotating presidency.
Szalay-Bobrovniczky noted that eleven defence ministers were invited to the Budapest meeting, including those from the Western Balkan countries. He described the Western Balkans as characterized by fragile security, underscoring the importance of supporting their European integration efforts.
He recalled Hungary’s 20-year membership in the European Union and 25-year NATO membership,
emphasizing the significance of these memberships in contributing to the country’s security and prosperity. Hungary aims to promote this stability and security in the Western Balkans as well.
Military missions are present in the Western Balkan countries, such as the NATO KFOR mission in Kosovo and the EU Althea mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, recently led by Brigadier General László Sticz. The minister also mentioned preparations for a military academy for Western Balkan countries initiated by Austria and the development of drones equipped with NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) sensors.
During the press briefing, Austrian Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized the need for European support for Western Balkan countries, stating that the EU is incomplete without them. She congratulated Bosnia and Herzegovina on starting accession negotiations with the EU. She stressed the importance of regional cooperation and military-political dialogue for success. She added that the EU must be a strong partner for the Western Balkan countries for European peace.
Slovakia will assume the next presidency of the CEDC next year. Slovak Deputy Defence Minister Martin Vojtašovič expressed appreciation for the Visegrád Cooperation (V4) and the CEDC, emphasizing their interest in continuing cooperation. He highlighted the importance of joint efforts and opportunities, supporting the European integration of Western Balkan countries. He emphasized the need for analysis, cooperation, coordination, and information exchange to address security threats, which the CEDC facilitates.
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