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The Netherlands to Engage with Hungarian EU Presidency on a Case-by-Case Basis
Dutch PM Dick Schoof The Netherlands will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to participate in events during Hungary’s EU presidency, rejecting a formal boycott, as stated by Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in an interview with the Telegra
Dutch PM Dick Schoof
The Netherlands will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to participate in events during Hungary’s EU presidency, rejecting a formal boycott, as stated by Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in an interview with the Telegraaf newspaper.
This stance follows the European Commission’s decision to be represented by senior civil servants at informal EU Council meetings, with the College of Commissioners abstaining from visiting Hungary. This decision was influenced by recent happenings and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s visits to Russia, Azerbaijan, China, and the United States as part of a “peace mission” for Ukraine.
PM Schoof, whose right-wing cabinet took office on July 2, emphasized that Mr. Orbán’s meetings were bilateral and did not represent the EU.
He asserted: “On a bilateral basis, each country does what it wants.” The politician also mentioned that whether the Netherlands would skip meetings organized by the Hungarian EU presidency would be determined together with other EU member states on a case-by-case basis.
Luxembourg’s PM, Luc Frieden, after meeting Dick Schoof, expressed strong opposition to a boycott of the Hungarian EU Presidency meetings. He stressed the importance of dialogue in a democracy, stating, “In a democracy, people talk to each other.”
After my visit to Prime Minister De Croo of Belgium I travelled on directly to Luxembourg for a meeting with Prime Minister @LucFrieden. We talked about the very strong ties between our countries and, among other topics, our close cooperation on energy, agriculture and defence –… pic.twitter.com/9cQ4Q8VRUJ
— Dick Schoof (@MinPres) July 15, 2024
Mr. Frieden argued that Luxembourg’s positions on various issues could be better conveyed if represented at the meetings and through clear communication with Hungary about their values.
He added, “Boycotts are never good. It is much better to talk to each other, even if we disagree. Democracy is rich when different ideas can be expressed. Of course, the will of the majority must be respected. I think our voice will be heard better if we go to Hungary. Moreover, we are going there to meet the 26 other member states.”
The Dutch approach to Hungary’s EU presidency reflects a preference for strategic engagement over outright boycott, with an emphasis on bilateral discretion and collective EU decision-making.
Via MTI; Featured Image: X / @MinPres
The post The Netherlands to Engage with Hungarian EU Presidency on a Case-by-Case Basis appeared first on Hungary Today.
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