A TISZA party delegation is in Brussels negotiating with the European Commission to release billions of euros in EU funds to Hungary.
TISZA Delegation in Brussels
Peter Magyar, leader of the TISZA party, announced that a delegation is currently in Brussels to discuss the release of EU funds earmarked for Hungary with representatives of the European Commission.
The delegation includes Anita Orban, Andras Karman, Istvan Kapitany, and Marton Mellethei-Barna.
Funds Withheld Under Orbán Government
Hungary, under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has lost access to approximately €17 billion, representing nearly 10% of the country’s annual GDP. This includes €10 billion from the post-COVID-19 recovery fund, with a spending deadline of August, and €7 billion from the seven-year EU budget for regional development.
The current multi-annual financial framework of the EU expires in 2027.
Conditions for Fund Release
The European Commission has linked the release of funds to Hungary’s implementation of reforms, including guaranteeing the independence of the judiciary and combating corruption.
Additional Funding Requests
The Orbán government also applied for €16 billion in loans from the SAFE defense program, but the European Commission has not yet approved Hungary’s plan.
New Government Appointments
Magyar announced that Anita Orban (not related to the outgoing prime minister) will serve as both Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister. She will fully represent the prime minister during his absence at cabinet meetings and other official events.
International Reactions
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski congratulated Anita Orban and expressed his anticipation for future collaboration.
Recent Election Results
The TISZA party, led by Magyar, won the parliamentary elections in Hungary on April 12th, securing 141 seats in the 199-member National Assembly, giving the party a constitutional majority. The new government will be sworn in on May 9th.