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PM Orbán: We stand as equals and friends in a Europe of sovereign nations

Today in Vienna, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) leader Herbert Kickl signed a joint declaration affirming their commitment to strengthening ties between Hungary and Austria and promoting shared goals for Europe.

The declaration emphasized “an alliance of positive reforms,” which the leaders described as an effort to preserve the “wonderful diversity” of the continent, grounded in “historical and cultural connections.”

The leaders expressed a desire to work as “equals and friends” to create a force for positive change, one that supports Europe’s identity by respecting national sovereignty and cultures. They noted that patriotism is a form of “pride in our own country and culture,” stressing that only those who honor their homeland can truly “respect others’ love for theirs.”

The declaration also outlined a shared view on Europe’s future, emphasizing the importance of limiting EU centralization and returning decision-making power to member states. Instead of adding bureaucratic layers to EU institutions, the leaders advocated “giving power back to the people” and elected representatives in national parliaments. They stated that the key to Europe’s successful reform lies in “valuing and preserving the diversity of peoples, cultures, national identities, and lifestyles” within a decentralized union.

On migration, PM Orbán and Kickl presented a firm stance, warning of the “greatest threat to Europe’s cultural heritage” from large-scale illegal migration and “organized abuse” of the right to asylum. They argued that these practices not only lead to conflicts between different cultures but also endanger Europe’s character and contribute to a “decline of indigenous populations.” The leaders called for using “all available legal means” to combat both illegal migration and any exploitation of asylum provisions.

The declaration included a call for immediate diplomatic efforts to end conflicts, with the leaders urging Europe to provide “a platform for peace talks” and calling for a return to the EU’s foundational purpose as a “peace project.” They stressed the importance of ceasefires and negotiations, advocating that Europe should play an active role in fostering peace.

Concluding the statement, PM Orbán and Kickl reaffirmed their commitment to the “internal consolidation and external expansion” of their alliance, expressing that the Patriots for Europe will help strengthen peace, freedom, security, and prosperity throughout Europe. With this agreement, the leaders signaled a commitment to work together toward a future that embraces Europe’s diversity, rooted in respect for the sovereignty and identities of its nations.