Following a recent meeting in Bratislava, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó reported that Slovak House Speaker Peter Žiga had reassured him that any new language law would fully protect the rights of Slovakia’s national minorities, allowing them to continue using their native languages without restriction. This pledge was well received by Hungary, with Szijjártó emphasizing that the welfare of the Hungarian minority in Slovakia remains a ‘matter of the heart’ for his government. He praised Slovak officials for recognizing the Hungarian community as a valuable partner in developing bilateral relations.
‘Today, I received clear confirmation from the Speaker that potential changes to language legislation will in no way endanger minority language use in Slovakia,’ Szijjártó said at a joint press conference on Monday. Highlighting his eight-year personal rapport with Žiga, he underscored his confidence in the speaker’s reassurance, stating that his words have consistently aligned with actions.
Both leaders stressed the importance of proactive approaches to minority issues, with Szijjártó noting that prevention is key to avoiding future disputes. He said he was confident that, as Žiga assured him, Slovakia would not pass any legislation that might limit or harm minority language rights. ‘Today’s assurances are a guarantee for me,’ he added, affirming that they had agreed on maintaining open channels of communication throughout any legislative process, enabling immediate discussions if either side detects any issues.
‘Szijjártó said he was confident that Slovakia would not pass any legislation that might limit or harm minority language rights’
Reflecting on Hungarian-Slovak relations, Szijjártó noted that cooperation between the two nations is now stronger than ever, underpinned by a shared commitment to mutual security and resource stability. Examples include Hungary’s contributions to Slovak airspace security and collaborative efforts on oil transport, which further bolster energy security across both nations.
Szijjártó also expressed Hungary’s readiness to deepen ties, particularly in infrastructure projects such as building new bridges over the Danube and the Ipoly, which would strengthen connectivity between the two countries.
Turning to regional stability, Szijjártó conveyed hope for lasting peace in Central Europe, recognizing a shared stance with Slovakia in favour of diplomacy over militarization in Ukraine. ‘Hungary and Slovakia proudly align with the global majority that seeks peace through ceasefires, not arms supplies,’ he emphasized.
House Speaker Žiga reiterated his government’s commitment to preserving the status quo on minority rights and stressed that, instead of restrictive policies, the Slovak government plans to enhance the quality of life for the Hungarian community in southern Slovakia. This would involve improvements to transportation infrastructure, including new roads and bridges to support regional development.
Žiga clarified that the details of the proposed language law are still under development, with no final text yet prepared. The interdepartmental consultation process will begin only after the draft’s completion, followed by government and parliamentary review. This timeline, he assured, provides ample opportunity for addressing any concerns that may arise, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in the process.
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