Hungary's international engagement, the Hungarian EU Presidency's priorities, as well as topical issues, such as the Libyan situation were the focus of János Martonyi Hungary's foreign minister's and Ban Ki-Moon UN Secretary-General's discussion in Budapest.
The UN Secretary-General praised Hungary for handling global issues and its leading role in overcoming the burdens of the global financial and economic crisis. In relation to the events taking place in Northern-Africa the Secretary-General said it was particularly important that the region benefits from Hungary’s experience gained during the democratic transition. Ban Ki-Moon commended the EU’s clear and concise policy towards the region, particularly praising the efforts made to protect the civilian population and humanitarian assistance provided to those in need. The Secretary-General called for an immediate ceasefire, and outlined the international plan, which may be able to stabilize the situation in the country.
The politicians agreed that the international community can provide effective support to those affected within the region as needed to help the democratic transformation. The Secretary-General initiated the establishment of a framework that would coordinate the EU, OSCE and the Council of Europe’s assistance in the development of democratic institutions. János Martonyi expressed his support of the initiative and indicated that Hungary is ready to engage therein.
(Source: kormany.hu translated by Béla Balczó)