European Integration Aims to Strengthen Nation-States, Says State Secretary.

Budapest: State Secretary Barna Pál Zsigmond emphasized that the purpose of European integration is to reinforce nation-states rather than undermine national self-determination and independence. This statement was made during the Conference of Parliamentary Committees for Union Affairs (COSAC) in Budapest, where he highlighted concerns about the European Union falling behind its global competitors.

According to About Hungary, Zsigmond detailed the Hungarian EU presidency’s goals, which include boosting productivity and growth within the bloc. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s priorities were also outlined, focusing on the adoption of a new European competitiveness pact, strengthening defense policy, and implementing a merit-based enlargement policy. Additional objectives include curbing illegal migration, promoting a farmer-centric EU agricultural policy, and tackling demographic challenges.

Reflecting on Hungary’s EU membership, Zsigmond mentioned, “Twenty years ago, we felt Hungary’s EU membership as a histor
ic success based on a national consensus, and notwithstanding current difficulties, we still feel the same today.” He expressed concerns about the increasing centralization and politicization of EU institutions, which he believes is encroaching on the sovereignty of member states.