FM: Israel is Hungary's friend and strategic ally
Speaking in Jerusalem on Wednesday, Minister Szijjártó said the Jewish state could continue to rely on Hungary in the international arena.
'We are aware that central Europe's security is closely linked to security in the Middle East, therefore, we have a vested interest in stability in that region,' Minister Szijjártó said during talks with Gideon Saar, his Israeli counterpart, according to a ministry statement.
Referring to an increasing threat of terrorism worldwide, Minister Szijjártó expressed Hungary's firm support for the fight against terrorism, saying, 'we most firmly condemn Hamas, and demand that its hostages be released.' He also regretted that a Hungarian national was still among the hostages held by Hamas.
'We hope the international community will increase its pressure on Hamas to release all the hostages,' he said.
Meanwhile, Minister Szijjártó said the Hungarian government 'firmly rejected' international efforts against Israel, such as the suspension of the European Union-Israel Association Council and sanctions against Israeli nationals.
The minister welcomed the development of bilateral economic ties, with special regard to the areas of IT, the defence industry, medical technology and food production.
Concerning talks with Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana earlier in the day, Minister Szijjártó said they had agreed that 'the EU's fine imposed on Hungary for not allowing illegal migrants to enter is a good investment in Hungary's future and security.'
'There are some issues on which you cannot compromise and in some cases not even a fine will deter us; Hungary's security, calm, and identity must be preserved, and it can only be accomplished if we do not let illegal migrants in,' Minister Szijjártó said.
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