Péter Sztáray (standing on the pulpit) speaking in the Hungarian Parliament
Péter Sztáray, Hungary’s Secretary of State for Security and Energy Policy, emphasized the need for further support for Iraq and the wider region due to the ongoing threat of terrorism linked to uncontrolled migration.
Speaking in Washington DC after a high-level meeting of the international coalition against the Islamic State, Mr. Sztáray stated, “terrorism is a real threat linked to uncontrolled migration, and there is no effective antidote to stop it, along with a lack of cooperation.” He highlighted that the coalition, which now includes 87 countries, has seen success in diminishing the Islamic State’s territorial authority but noted the persistence of various terrorist groups in the Middle East and Africa.
The Secretary of State reiterated the Iraqi government’s request for an international presence, stating that “countries will therefore maintain some form of presence here,” indicating Hungary’s commitment to being part of that effort, with troops previously deployed in Iraq.
He also announced Hungary’s launch of a cooperation program with Chad, which will integrate humanitarian, economic, and defense-security elements.
In stressing Hungary’s approach to border protection, Péter Sztáray remarked, “help should be taken to where the problem is and not to Europe,” reflecting the country’s stance on addressing terrorism and illegal migration at their source.
He pointed out that after 2015, Hungary demonstrated that uncontrolled migration does not enhance security in Europe.
The coalition’s joint statement at the US State Department meeting highlighted member countries’ commitment to supporting Iraq’s security and development, with leaders pledging to raise USD 394M for areas liberated from Islamic State control.
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Via MTI; Featured Image: MTI / Bruzák Noémi