Conflicts can only be resolved through political dialogue

At the European Parliament’s plenary session the MEPs debated the situation in Russia in the presence of the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell. The debate also touched on the escalating Russian-Ukrainian situation in the recent weeks in Eastern Ukraine. The conflict, which has been ongoing since 2014, has so far claimed tens of thousands of casualties and heightened tensions in Ukraine, that is struggling with political, economic and social difficulties and is now facing serious consequences of the coronavirus epidemic. These events have had a great impact on the life of the Hungarian minority living in Transcarpathia, who are not spared by the anti-minority policy of the Ukrainian legislators and the atrocities instigated in the country for political purposes by radical extremists.

“It is hopeful that the tensions at Ukraine’s Eastern border have eased. I believe that progress can be made in the Normandy format, as, in accordance with the Minsk agreements, a peaceful settlement is the only right solution, and the conflict can only be resolved through political dialogue”, said Fidesz MEP Andrea Bocskor.

In her speech MEP Bocskor confirmed that: “Hungary stands for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is aware of the difficulties Ukraine is facing, thus Budapest is helping the country for years to alleviate the economic and humanitarian problems arising from the Eastern conflict and the fight against the coronavirus epidemic”.

Hungary has rushed to Ukraine’s aid countless times in recent years, proving not to be indifferent if its Eastern neighbour is in need and provided assistance in numerous forms: reverse-flow gas, medical treatment and rehabilitation for wounded Ukrainian soldiers, camping for kids whose parents have been affected by the conflict in Eastern Ukraine, chlorine needed for drinkable water, as well as cleaning polluted waters. Hungary’s COVID-19 related assistance to Ukraine amounts to approximately 11.31 million USD so far. One of the latest demonstrations of our support has been delivering 50 respirators to several hospitals in the Transcarpathian region. Between 2016 and 2020, Hungary has provided the country with economic development assistance that led to the realization of projects worth more than 60 million EUR.

“Nevertheless, Ukraine does not provide proportionate respect for the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia. Linguistic and educational rights are constantly curtailed, representatives of the Hungarian minority are not involved in the decision-making processes, their leaders are intimidated, they are  stigmatized on the Myrotvorets website (as it happened to me as well) and the new law on dual citizenship and minorities may also be disadvantageous”,  presented the facts MEP Bocskor in the plenary debate. 

“Hungary is ready for a constructive dialogue with Kyiv in order to find a solution that is in line with all parties involved, guarantees the rights and security of the Hungarian community in accordance with Ukraine’s international and bilateral commitments”, concluded her remarks the Fides MEP.

“Sacrificing the rights of minorities cannot be an acceptable collateral damage in Ukraine’s legitimate fight for its sovereignty and nation-building efforts. We need to draw attention on all international forums to the fact that Europe needs a Ukraine which is stable, democratic and respects its minorities”, MEP Andrea Bocskor added after her speech.

In connection with the debate, MEP Kinga Gál, Chair of the Fidesz Delegation to the European Parliament drew attention to the tensions in Central and Eastern Europe in recent weeks which are affecting the stability of our region and the sense of security of our EU citizens. “Thus, in connection with the events in the Czech Republic, in line with the Monday’s declaration adopted by the Visegrad countries, I would like to express my solidarity with the Czech Republic”, declared MEP Gál.

“The military buildup on the Ukrainian-Russian border have also increased tensions in the region. That is why we must stand firm in favour of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The primary goal and interest of all of us must be to preserve the security and balance of our region and our neighborhood, to resolve conflicts peacefully, which can only be achieved through dialogue and negotiation, as this is the European Union’s most important foreign policy instrument”, pointed out MEP Kinga Gál. She further emphasized that: “We understand the difficult situation in Ukraine, and therefore I am glad that the Hungarian government is trying to provide concrete assistance through numerous means. At the same time, Ukraine must respect the rights of national minorities, including the Hungarian community, as this is the only way these minorities can feel at home and as full citizens in their country”.