Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar emphasized the need for European technological independence during a speech on Monday in Berlin. Speaking at a conference organized by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, he noted that Europe is lagging in technological development.
“We know how dependent we are on energy, critical raw materials, components and technologies produced outside our continent,” Magyar stated. He urged for increased investment in European technology and industrial capabilities, asserting that “the renewal of Europe’s competitiveness must not be postponed any longer.”
Magyar delivered his remarks in German, a language he learned during an Erasmus semester in Hamburg. He later acknowledged that he had forgotten much of it since then.
A shift towards Europe
Magyar took office in May, following a tenure marked by semi-authoritarian governance under his predecessor, Viktor Orbán. During Orbán’s time in power, Hungary often faced conflicts with the European Union and developed closer ties with Russia and the administration of former President Donald Trump. Orbán utilized his veto power to block numerous significant EU decisions.
After his party, the centre-right Tisza Party, won the parliamentary elections in April, Magyar signaled a shift in policy direction. He reaffirmed this new commitment in Berlin, stating, “Our aim is to bring Hungary back to Europe,” and called on Germany for “patience and time.” He expressed optimism that Hungary’s success could contribute to Europe’s overall success.
‘Wake up, Europe, return to the people’
Magyar emphasized the importance of engaging with ordinary citizens, mentioning his visits to Hungary’s smallest villages to gain insights into their concerns. He encouraged other European leaders to adopt a similar approach.
“Europe’s leading politicians must go to the people and understand what they long for. Trust must become the foundation of a new European political mindset,” he urged. He critiqued the political elite for clinging to outdated methods, concluding his speech with a call to action: “Wake up, Europe, return to the people.”
