At today’s Government Info press conference, Minister Gergely Gulyás addressed topics ranging from bomb threats in schools to Hungary’s economic outlook, offering reassurance and detailing government efforts on various pressing issues.
Minister Gulyás opened the press briefing by discussing the bomb threats received by more than 240 schools around the country. The threats, allegedly made “in the name of Allah,” did not disrupt classes, as school principals were given discretion over suspensions. Gulyás assured that police have launched an investigation into the threats for “creating public danger” and expressed confidence that investigators will identify the perpetrator despite the use of a foreign server to send the emails. He also noted collaboration with Slovak authorities, referencing a similar incident years ago.
Switching to economic matters, Gulyás shared an “optimistic assessment,” reporting positive economic indicators, including a projected 5 percent to 6 percent real wage increase and record-breaking growth in tourism. Additionally, domestic consumption rose by 4.1 percent, ranking Hungary fifth in the EU, while car sales in 2024 exceeded the previous year’s figures. Summarizing the outlook, he stated, “The Hungarian economy is on the cusp of significant growth after years of stagnation.”
Addressing questions on foreign policy, Minister Gulyás downplayed the possibility of a meeting between Prime Minister Orbán and Russian President Putin, suggesting that “a larger, more influential state has taken the lead” in negotiations. He linked this to U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to mediate with Russia, while cautioning that more aggressive trade policies from the U.S. could negatively affect Hungary’s economy.
The minister also touched on urban development issues, specifically the controversy surrounding the planned development in Rákosrendező. Gulyás criticized the Budapest leadership’s historical neglect of the area, defending a large-scale investment project spearheaded by Dubai investors. While he agreed that the city should have a say in the height of buildings, including rejecting 400-meter skyscrapers, he questioned their broader opposition to the project. Gulyás also emphasized that no party, including entities linked to prominent businessmen István Garancsi or Árpád Habony, holds pre-emptive purchasing rights over the land.
The briefing concluded with comments on sanctions. Gulyás noted that Antal Rogán, minister of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet Office, has taken the necessary steps to be removed from the U.S. sanctions list, which should likely occur before the end of this year.
