Orbán: ‘Western Balkans EU integration Hungary’s vested interest’

In a video posted on Facebook ahead of a EU-Western Balkans summit in Tirana, Orbán said he would represent a “firm and strong position” as regards the Western Balkan countries’ EU integration.

Their integration is for Hungary essential in terms of the country’s security because “we can close off the migration route entirely only with Serbia’s help” and in terms of its energy security because “Hungarian families and businesses receive gas from the south, via the Balkans and Serbia”, he said.

“Serbia and the Western Balkans could serve as a gate for cheap energy coming to central Europe from the south, and this could ensure the energy independence of Hungary and the entire region,” said Orbán.

“The time has come, and this is what we are going to press for. Let’s not hesitate any longer! It is time for the EU to include Serbia and the other Western Balkan countries among its members,” the Hungarian prime minister said.