Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha summarized the first meeting with the newly appointed head of the Hungarian Foreign Ministry, Anita Orban, emphasizing the positive dynamics in relations between the two countries. The meeting took place following Orban’s appointment in the government of Hungary’s new Prime Minister, Peter Madyar.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Details of the negotiations and readiness for dialogue
During a press briefing on the way to Kyiv, Andrii Sybiha stressed the desire of both sides for constructive cooperation. The issue of protecting the rights of national minorities in Transcarpathia was particularly important for both parties. According to the minister, the Ukrainian side informed their Hungarian colleagues about their perspective on the situation and expressed their concerns. Sybiha reported that the next round of negotiations between the ministers is scheduled for next week, while the date for a meeting between the leaders of both states has yet to be determined.
“I see a willingness to listen to each other and jointly open a new chapter in our bilateral relations… We do not hide behind diplomatic words, we do not embellish reality, but we call things by their names,” said Sybiha.
Technical consultations and cooperation prospects
The minister also spoke about the first round of technical consultations between the Ukrainian and Hungarian negotiating teams, which lasted six hours. According to Sybiha, the parties made some progress, particularly regarding issues that the Hungarian side considers problematic. Ukraine continues to adhere to the highest standards of minority protection as defined by the Council of Europe and the European Union, and provides detailed clarifications to achieve mutual understanding in joint assessments.
Earlier this week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, after meeting with Andrii Sybiha, spoke about an active dialogue with the new leadership of Hungary and the possibility of a constructive renewal of bilateral relations.
In May, Peter Madyar, leader of the “Tisa” party, which won the elections in Hungary, officially became Prime Minister, ending a 16-year era of Viktor Orban’s rule. His election was welcomed by leaders of the European Union and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Both Kyiv and Brussels expect that Madyar, who positions himself as a pro-European politician, will change the policy of his predecessor and support Ukraine.
Peter Madyar had previously expressed his intention to meet with Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting negotiations in Transcarpathia in early June. The Ukrainian president also expressed his readiness for such a meeting.