Orbán: Serbia is the key to the Balkans' stability
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić held a joint press conference in Budapest following President Vučić's receipt of the Hungarian Order of Merit's Grand Cross with a necklace and a gold star. The award recognizes his efforts in strengthening Hungarian-Serbian relations; advancing strategic cooperation in energy, security, and the economy; and his role in fostering historical reconciliation between the two nations.
Prime Minister Orbán emphasized that Hungarian-Serbian cooperation has reached an unprecedented level, built on shared challenges and mutual interests. He praised President Vučić for understanding the strategic importance of this partnership and actively working to deepen ties.
Discussing energy security, PM Orbán highlighted Serbia's vital role in Hungary's energy supply. Last year, a record 7.5 billion cubic meters of gas arrived in Hungary via Serbia, an increase of 2 billion from the previous year. The leaders also reviewed progress on a 300-kilometer oil pipeline, which will enhance the energy security of both countries. Prime Minister Orbán underscored that neither Hungarian nor Serbian energy independence can be ensured without close cooperation, making this partnership indispensable.
Economic ties between the two countries continue to grow, with bilateral trade reaching new heights. PM Orbán pointed to Serbia's 9 percent real wage growth and 4 percent economic expansion, positioning it as one of Europe's most successful economies. He noted Serbia's ability to balance trade beyond the European Union, with 40 percent of its foreign commerce occurring outside the bloc, serving as a model for economic resilience. These achievements, he added, are particularly significant given the external pressures both nations have faced in recent years.
Turning to regional stability, Prime Minister Orbán reiterated that Serbia's strength is essential for the security of the Balkans. He praised President Vučić's leadership in resisting external destabilization efforts and maintaining national sovereignty. Without Serbia's full participation, he argued, any attempt to secure lasting stability in the Balkans is bound to fail.
President Vučić expressed gratitude for the Hungarian honor, calling it a testament to the deep friendship between the Serbian and Hungarian people. He credited PM Orbán with laying the foundations of this partnership and emphasized that the relationship extends beyond politics. Trust between the two nations, he said, is reflected not only in diplomatic cooperation but also in economic and infrastructure projects. The Serbian president also acknowledged the Hungarian community in Serbia as a key link in bilateral relations.
Looking ahead, President Vučić highlighted the importance of the high-speed railway between Belgrade and Budapest, which will significantly cut travel time and enhance economic connectivity. He also reaffirmed Serbia's commitment to joint energy projects, noting Hungary's crucial support during critical periods, particularly in securing gas storage during the harshest winters.
As regional cooperation deepens, both leaders expressed their commitment to further strengthening economic and security ties. Prime Minister Orbán pointed to a shifting international climate that favors their partnership, creating new opportunities for even closer coordination in the coming years.
With strategic projects underway and political alignment firmly in place, Hungary and Serbia continue to set an example of stability and cooperation in Central Europe.
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