Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán spoke at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, advocating for a climate policy approach rooted in pragmatism and cautious assessment rather than ideology or fear-driven panic. Addressing more than 40 global leaders, Orbán emphasized the need for clear-headed and economically sustainable climate strategies, which he argued are crucial to protecting Hungary’s industries and agricultural base.
Orbán expressed gratitude to Azerbaijani President İlham Əliyev for hosting the climate summit, calling Azerbaijan a vital European partner in advancing climate objectives. The prime minister highlighted Hungary’s recent role as host of the European Political Community and European Council summits, which drew nearly 50 heads of state and government to Budapest. He noted that a new declaration on competitiveness was issued at last week’s informal EU summit in Budapest, reflecting a redefined EU stance on climate policy.
‘Our mission is to make Europe more competitive, and this vision shapes our approach to climate action,’ said Orbán. He underscored that Hungary is one of the few nations to simultaneously reduce emissions and boost economic performance, a balance he credits to thoughtful policy.
However, Orbán cautioned that Hungary’s green transition must not come at the cost of sacrificing critical sectors like industry and agriculture. Rather, he advocated a practical blend of traditional energy sources, such as oil, gas, and nuclear power, alongside green initiatives. Farmers, who Orbán described as the backbone of Hungary’s economy and society, should not be burdened with unrealistic regulations, but instead be provided with practical support to help them adapt to sustainable practices.
Emphasizing that climate goals should be achieved in partnership with, not opposition to, the business community, Orbán called for robust financial commitments and substantial investments. He also urged large corporations to play a fair role in advancing climate protection measures.
Turning to Hungary’s specific climate goals, Orbán detailed the country’s ambition to be a significant player in the fields of electric vehicle technology and energy storage. Hungary continues to invest in its nuclear energy sector, aiming to meet up to 70 per cent of its electricity demands from nuclear power, while positioning itself as a key transit point in the East-West energy corridor.
Hungary leads in economically sustainable climate protection and ranks fourth among EU countries in carbon reduction per unit of energy produced, Orbán reminded the audience. As Hungary looks to the future, it has set an ambitious target of a 50 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, surpassing previous goals.
Concluding his address, Orbán affirmed that balancing ambition with realism is essential to make Europe a global leader in climate action while securing the future of its industry and agriculture.
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