Following discussions with his Serbian counterpart in Budapest on Friday, Hungary’s Minister of Defence, Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, underscored the significance of Serbia as a neighbour and a key partner, highlighting the strategic alliance and substantial friendship between the two nations.

Last year, during an extended cabinet meeting in Palić, Serbia, a decision was made to establish a working group focused on defence industry and procurement alongside existing military cooperation, and this group has now been formed in Budapest, Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky pointed out. Hungary’s continuous acquisition of new, modern military equipment has opened up opportunities to sell surplus assets to Serbia. The working group is actively exploring the expansion of collaboration to include the production of defence industry assets.

Addressing the global and regional security situation, particularly focusing on the Western Balkans, Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky expressed concern that, in the age of threats, this region could become a potential source of conflict. He reiterated Hungary’s commitment to the peace and stability of the region, acknowledging its direct impact on Europe’s stability and security.

Both ministers concurred that diplomacy plays a crucial role in promoting peace in the region.

Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky asserted that international alliances providing military support to the region are a guarantee of its peace. Notably, Hungarian Major General László Sticz will soon take over the command of EUFOR ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, maintaining the same high standards set by Major General Ferenc Kajári leading KFOR.

Additionally, Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky mentioned Hungary’s presidency of the Central European Defence Cooperation (CEDC) this year, providing an opportunity to represent the security concerns of the Western Balkans. Looking ahead to the latter half of next year, Hungary will hold the rotating presidency of the European Union Council, presenting an opportunity to facilitate Serbia’s EU accession process.

Serbia’s Minister of Defence and Deputy Prime Minister, Miloš Vučević, expressed gratitude for Hungary’s consistent support for Serbia’s path to European Union membership. He emphasized the strategic partnership and an exceptional relationship, almost surpassing mere friendship, between the two countries. Minister Vučević highlighted Serbia’s willingness to collaborate with Hungary in various areas related to security and military development, taking into account Hungary’s NATO membership.

Acknowledging the strengthening of Serbia’s armed forces through the acquisition of military equipment from Hungary, Minister Vučević emphasized that this enhancement contributes to greater security in Serbia. He briefed the Hungarian Minister of Defence on the situation in Kosovo and expressed gratitude for Hungary’s effective participation in KFOR. Minister Vučević extended best wishes to Major General László Sticz, who will soon assume the command of the EUFOR ALTHEA mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Sources: Hungarian Conservative/MTI