Hungary has signed a military and defence industry cooperation agreement with the United Arab Emirates, Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky announced on Monday, 22 April.
According to a statement issued by the Hungarian Ministry of Defence Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky held discussions on military and defence industry cooperation opportunities with Mohammad Fadhel Al Mazrouei, the Minister of State for Defence Affairs of the Gulf state during his visit to the United Arab Emirates.
On social media Szalay-Bobrovniczky highlighted that with the signing of the agreement official negotiations on military cooperation between the two countries can formally commence. The minister emphasized the importance of the mutual understanding of defence capabilities between nations, as well as the identification of common areas for research, development, and innovation.
‘In an era overshadowed by conflicts, Hungary strives for peace. However, as international communities increasingly veer towards escalation in conflicts, the Hungarian government’s paramount goal is to bolster the country’s defence capabilities. The cooperation signed here can contribute to ensuring that the Hungarian Defence Forces, equipped with modern tools and comprising excellently trained soldiers, possess undeniable striking power and deterrent force, thereby guaranteeing Hungary’s security. Furthermore, the defence industry can also contribute to economic growth,’ the minister stated according to the ministry’s press release.
The minister underscored that strengthening ties with the United Arab Emirates, a significant economic and military power in the Gulf region, can complement Hungary’s defence development programme, whether it involves defence-oriented research, innovation, or the manufacturing of military equipment.
Szalay-Bobrovniczky highlighted that as a member of the European Union and NATO, Hungary advocates for enhancing defence connectivity, emphasizing the necessity of improving cooperation with countries in the Middle East and North Africa, ranging from counterterrorism efforts to border protection.
‘Just consider the Russo-Ukrainian conflict; changes in grain production in the region can cause supply problems in the Middle East and North Africa, exacerbate illegal migration, and increase the risk of terrorism,’ the minister added, pointing out the significant role of the United Arab Emirates in combating international terrorism and strengthening stability in both regions. ‘Ensuring the security of commercial navigation in the Red Sea and easing tensions in the Middle East are mutual interests of Europe and the Gulf countries,’ Szalay-Bobrovniczky concluded.
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Sources: Hungarian Conservative/Ministry of Defence
