Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs reaffirms Hungary’s support for Georgia

János Bóka, the Hungarian Minister for European Union Affairs, on Thursday addressed Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze at an event in Budapest dedicated to Georgia's Independence Day by saying that it was an honour to be Georgia’s voice in the European Union at a time when some wanted to silence the country.

In his remarks, Bóka noted that Hungary supported Georgia’s aspiration toward EU enlargement not only politically, but also through technical assistance and capacity building.

“Allow me to convey the congratulations and best wishes of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and the Government of Hungary on the occasion of Georgia’s Independence Day. The strategic partnership between Georgia and Hungary extends across all areas. Our trade turnover has tripled, and more than 130 Georgian students are currently studying at Hungarian universities through our scholarship program”, Bóka said.

“Hungary supports Georgia’s aspiration toward European Union enlargement not only politically, but also through technical assistance and capacity building. We are honored to be your voice in the European Union at a time when others wish to silence you. We stand by your side - in both fair and stormy weather. We do this because our countries are very close to each other. Our nations deeply understand the value of sovereignty and independence. We both know these are not easily gained, nor are they free”, he noted.

He also emphasised that Georgian and Hungary were both European nations, not because someone certified as such, but because both had been so for over a thousand years.

“We are proud nations, and we want to remain that way. We are two islands of freedom in the ocean of old and new empires. We reach out to each other, building bridges and shaping a future for our children and grandchildren. Today, I stand before you to reaffirm our commitment. May there be peace and prosperity in the beautiful country called Georgia. Long live the proud Georgian nation! May our partnership grow stronger with each passing year”, he concluded.