Hungary and Germany are embarking on a new chapter together.

Today, I will be the first German Foreign Minister to visit Hungary in almost seven years. This shows that we have a great deal of ground to make up. However, the political shift in Hungary presents an opportunity to swiftly put our relations back on a footing of reliability and mutual trust, so I am travelling there with the hope that Hungary is rediscovering its passion for Europe and that the continent as a whole will feel this.

Hungary’s new Government has launched key reforms in a short space of time. The return to the rule of law and the implementation of EU provisions are good news for Europe, but primarily for the people in Hungary itself, as the rule of law and reliable rules are crucial for public trust in the state and for willingness on the part of Hungarian and international companies to take the decision to invest. If companies from all EU Member States can once again rely on a level playing field, this will be of huge benefit to the Hungarian economy. German companies already provide 250,000 jobs in Hungary, so I am delighted that a delegation of representatives of German firms is accompanying me today to discuss exactly which further steps are now needed.

Given our shared history, it was also important to me to take the opportunity to start over with our friends in Hungary. We will always be grateful to the people of Hungary, as it was they who launched the process in 1989 that ultimately tore down the Iron Curtain and made German reunification possible. By opening its borders, Hungary paved the way to freedom for thousands of GDR citizens. This history unites us – and reminds us that freedom requires our constant active support.

Today, our freedom is under pressure from both internal and external forces, which often act in concert. Russia’s hybrid attacks on Europe are increasing. Disinformation, sabotage and interference campaigns do not stop at our borders. On the contrary, they exploit our freedom and openness. The attack in Leipzig showed us that this threat is as tangible as it is acute. In recently expelling ten Russian diplomats, Hungary sent a clear message. The country’s solidarity after the attempted attack at Leipzig Airport and the jointly agreed EU sanctions also show Russia’s leaders unambiguously that we will defend the peaceful order in Europe against Russian aggression.

Germany and Hungary now have an opportunity to make up for lost time and to create something new. In visiting Hungary, my aim is to underline that the German Government is determined to make use of this opportunity for our two countries.