Budapest: Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Viktor Orb¡n, Prime Minister of Hungary, delivered press statements addressing the growing partnership between Azerbaijan and Hungary.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the leaders emphasized their countries’ long-standing friendship and collaborative efforts in addressing current global challenges, particularly in the energy sector.
Prime Minister Orb¡n welcomed President Aliyev to Hungary, highlighting the historical significance of the summit of the Organization of Turkic States being held in Hungary for the first time. Orb¡n acknowledged Azerbaijan’s support in ensuring Hungary’s energy security, especially during a time when the European economy is grappling with instability and rising energy costs. He detailed the impact of the ongoing war in Hungary’s neighboring country, which has severely affected Hungary’s economy. Despite these challenges, Orb¡n expressed gratitude for Azerbaijan’s assurance in supplying the necessary amount of gas and emphasized the importance of their bilateral energy relations.
President Aliyev expressed his appreciation for the invitation and warm hospitality in Budapest. He reiterated the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Hungary, citing shared historical roots and mutual understanding of similar challenges faced by their countries. Aliyev spoke on Azerbaijan’s own experiences with conflict and the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process. He stressed the importance of diplomatic negotiations over armed conflict and praised the progress made towards a peace treaty with Armenia.
The discussions between the two leaders also focused on economic cooperation, with Hungarian investments in Azerbaijan and ongoing projects in the energy sector. Aliyev highlighted the involvement of Hungarian companies in major Azerbaijani oil and gas projects and the plans for future collaboration in green energy initiatives. The partnership aims to produce significant amounts of green energy, contributing to both countries’ energy security and sustainability goals.
In conclusion, both leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening their bilateral relations and working together on international platforms. The upcoming informal summit, initiated by Hungary, was seen as a testament to the historical and cultural ties between the two nations. Aliyev praised Hungary’s independent policy within the European Union and the leadership of Prime Minister Orb¡n, emphasizing the mutual respect and affection between Azerbaijan and Hungary.