Statement of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Botchorishvili following her meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary

Thank you, dear Péter,

Thank you for the warm welcome.

It is a special pleasure for me to be here in Budapest, in this wonderful city.

Meeting with you and discussing important issues is always a great pleasure.

The exceptional friendship that binds our countries is naturally reflected in our agenda and in the frequency of our meetings. Today, our countries are not merely friendly states. We are united by strategic objectives, a shared commitment to peace, and the defense of common values that once formed the foundation of the European Union and are increasingly being challenged across Europe today.

First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Hungary for its strong and consistent support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In today’s challenging global environment, safeguarding national sovereignty is of critical importance. Both the Georgian and Hungarian governments clearly understand the risks associated with attacks on sovereignty and the need to firmly protect it, despite frequent criticism directed at the legitimate exercise of sovereign rights. Our connection and unity, and our joint efforts to defend the principle of sovereignty for the sake of our shared future, are of vital importance. Our governments are also united by a shared commitment to peace.

The devastating consequences of war that we see today in Europe underscore the importance of responsible and cautious policies aimed at preventing further instability and securing lasting peace. Georgia remains firmly committed to supporting peace-oriented efforts and policies.

Our governments are also united in the defense of traditional values. We share a common determination to protect conservative values, which are essential to ensuring a healthy and sustainable future for our societies. This is not an easy task in today’s world, and we often face unjust treatment because of our firm and principled positions. Relations with sovereign states should not be conditioned by Brussels on demands to repeal laws adopted by democratically elected parliaments.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for your firm support of Georgia’s European aspirations. You are a courageous minister who boldly opposes the instrumentalization of EU integration and its use as a tool of punishment against our country’s European aspirations and interests. Speaking the truth about the Georgian government and defending it is not an easy task in European circles today, and few dare to do so. Such principled support is highly appreciated.

I would also like to briefly touch upon the bilateral agenda between our countries and welcome the intensive cooperation that has developed between our two governments across various fields. Our partnership serves the best interests of both countries and contributes to Europe’s broader security and prosperity. Georgia’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia remains irreplaceable, and only through joint efforts and cooperation can our shared interests be effectively protected.

I would also like to express my appreciation for Hungary’s support in capacity-building for Georgian public servants. Last autumn, up to 50 Georgian officials benefited from sharing Hungary’s experience, for which I extend my personal thanks to you. Our objective is to further strengthen and deepen our strategic partnership. This cooperation rests on a solid foundation, reinforced through high-level intergovernmental engagement.

We look forward to hosting the Hungarian government in Georgia later this year, following the upcoming elections.

Let me thank you once again for your friendship, support, and cooperation, and wish you continued success.