Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the CDU suggested that relations with Hungary are poised for a “restart” following the election of Péter Magyar as the new Prime Minister. Merz made his comments on Tuesday after visiting Magyar at the Chancellery. He characterized Magyar’s victory as “a deep turning point in Hungarian history since the end of the Cold War”.
Merz noted that for many Hungarians, the new head of government represents “a great bearer of hope” during this period. According to Merz, Magyar received a clear mandate from the electorate, affirming that “democracy and the rule of law are strong in Hungary once again”. The Chancellor expressed confidence that Magyar would guide the country “back to the centre of Europe”.
Merz further announced that Berlin is committed to doing everything possible to ensure that this new beginning in Hungary proves successful. He assured Magyar and his supporters, “You can count on us. And you can count on me personally if you are looking for allies in your work within the European Union”.
