Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's letter to András Heisler, President of the Federation of Hungarian Jewish Communities (Mazsihisz), sent on Thursday. The full letter can be read below.
Dear Presidents, Dear Managing Director,
Please allow me to first of all thank you for your intent and constructive approach to facilitating dialogue, as testified to by your letter.
As you know, both my previous and current governments have had a policy of zero tolerance towards anti-Semitism, and approach the victims, those who wish to remember and those who believe in human dignity, with openness and compassion. This is why we established the Páva Street Holocaust Museum between 1998 and 2002, and this is why we introduced Holocaust Remembrance Day, so that every year future generations may also face the tragedy that befell the whole Hungarian nation.
I also agree with you with regard to the fact that in addition to increasing awareness of the horrors of the Holocaust, it is also important that our children come to know more about the history of Hungarian-Jewish cohabitation, and especially the values that the Hungarian and Jewish peoples gave to each other, thus enriching Hungarian history and culture and facilitating our common ascension.
However, as you know, the election campaign officially began on 15 February. I realise that this moment in time is perhaps not best suited to enabling us to share our opinions calmly and with sympathy. There is a danger that, despite the best of intentions, we will not hear each other's voices. And accordingly I suggest that we continue our dialogue following the Easter holidays, which will mean a renewal for all of us. If possible, our working groups should continue performing their duties until that time.
19 February 2014, Budapest.
Yours Sincerely,
Viktor Orbán
(Prime Minister's Office)