Hungary’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union has generated significant anticipation in the Middle East and North Africa. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto highlighted the importance of this presidency during recent discussions with his counterparts from Jordan and Egypt. The presidency, set to begin in July 2024, is expected to strengthen Hungary’s ties with these regions, focusing on cooperation in areas such as migration, education, and economic development.
Hungary’s EU presidency is seen as an opportunity to enhance cooperation with Middle Eastern and North African countries. During his discussions with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Szijjarto emphasized Hungary’s commitment to supporting these countries in their efforts to maintain regional stability and manage migration. Both Jordan and Egypt play crucial roles in preventing illegal migration, which significantly contributes to Europe’s security.
Szijjarto also highlighted the importance of economic cooperation. Hungary plans to strengthen its economic ties with Middle Eastern and North African countries during its EU presidency. This includes increasing trade and investment opportunities, as well as supporting development projects that can boost economic growth in these regions. By fostering closer economic ties, Hungary aims to create mutually beneficial partnerships that contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
Education is another key area of cooperation. Hundreds of students from Jordan and Egypt currently study at Hungarian universities, and Hungary plans to expand these educational exchanges during its EU presidency. By providing more opportunities for students from these regions to study in Hungary, the country hopes to build stronger cultural and academic ties that can support long-term cooperation.
Addressing Migration Challenges
Migration is a significant issue for both Europe and the Middle East and North Africa. Hungary’s EU presidency will focus on addressing the challenges of illegal migration and supporting countries in the region that bear the brunt of these challenges. Szijjarto emphasized the need for the EU to provide more support to countries like Jordan and Egypt, which play critical roles in managing migration flows and maintaining regional stability.
One of the key priorities for Hungary’s EU presidency will be to advocate for increased development aid to these countries. Szijjarto called for the EU to expedite the next tranche of development aid to Egypt, recognizing the country’s efforts in managing migration and contributing to regional security. By providing more support to these countries, Hungary aims to help them address the root causes of migration and improve living conditions for their populations.
Hungary also plans to use its EU presidency to promote policies that enhance cooperation on migration management. This includes working with Middle Eastern and North African countries to develop comprehensive strategies for managing migration flows, improving border security, and providing support for refugees and migrants. By addressing these challenges collaboratively, Hungary hopes to create more effective and sustainable solutions to the migration crisis.
Enhancing Economic and Educational Ties
Economic and educational cooperation will be central to Hungary’s EU presidency. Szijjarto highlighted the importance of strengthening economic ties with Middle Eastern and North African countries, focusing on increasing trade and investment opportunities. Hungary plans to support development projects that can boost economic growth in these regions, creating more opportunities for businesses and improving living standards for local populations.
Educational exchanges will also play a key role in Hungary’s efforts to build stronger ties with these regions. By expanding opportunities for students from Jordan and Egypt to study in Hungary, the country hopes to foster closer cultural and academic connections. These exchanges can help build a foundation for long-term cooperation, supporting mutual understanding and collaboration in various fields.
Hungary’s EU presidency represents a significant opportunity to enhance cooperation with Middle Eastern and North African countries. By focusing on key areas such as migration, economic development, and education, Hungary aims to build stronger, more effective partnerships that can contribute to regional stability and prosperity. As the presidency approaches, there is great anticipation for the positive impact it can have on Hungary’s relations with these important regions.
