Government of Hungary

Policy topics Government of Hungary is active on

What Government of Hungary has said (80)

• 2026-07-14 “Thank you. And dear Thomas, Hungary welcomes the ambitious program of the Irish presidency, which places a strong emphasis on Europe's competitiveness, values, and security. We support the objective of ensuring that European Union assumes responsibility for its own security in close cooperation with the transatlantic alliance. With regard to enlargement, we believe that building on the progress achieved over the past 2 years, further advances can be made in the accession process of the Western Balkan countries. We continue to advocate for a merit based enlargement policy. The unanimity requirement and the current enlargement methodology must remain the guiding principles for cluster openings, and we must apply the same set of rules to all candidate countries. As regards the negotiations on the next MFF, the Hungarian concerns are well known. The financing of new priorities must not come at the expense of traditional policies. It is necessary to address the inequities inherent in the proposed new revenue side resources. As regards the national and regional partnership plans, a chapter based approach should be applied to both the common agricultural policy and cohesion policy. The substance of the MFF agreement is more important than the speed of its adoption. Concerning the EU's competitiveness, we shared the view that the current geopolitical and economic environment requires decisive action. We support the president's efforts to reach agreements on priority legislative dossiers in order to achieve the objective set out for 2026 under the 1 Europe, 1 market agenda. In order to increase the efficiency of the economy, we also support advancing work related to the commission's simplification omnibus proposals. For Hungary, it is of particular importance that member states with smaller economies are also able to benefit from the advantages of the single market. Thank you.”
  Own EU resources
• 2026-07-13 “Thank you for the floor and the presidency for the opportunity to present these two declarations. Now I invited the agricultural ministers of the Visegrad countries and Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia and Romania on June the 30th to discuss issues. And we adopted two joint declarations. Now, the first declaration addresses issues regarding the effective management of agricultural crisis situations within the framework, in the wider context. And this was also supported by Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania. The statement says that crisis management tools in the cap should be made more simple and flexible, so that they mean real help for farmers, and it would be also good if we could allow advances to be played, paid for us, paid advances could be paid immediately. And also if the unity safety net could be used to provide compensation for damages for damage caused by natural disasters. It would also be important to involve, in addition to external funding players, we would need a European level reassurance system which is able to address system level risks. Now, the other statement on the cooperation in the field of bioeconomy economy and tackling weather extremes that was supported by the Visegrad countries, plus Croatia and Romania.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-07-13 “The statement Says that Central and Eastern Europe has vast biomass resources and innovation potentials, and to harness these potentials and resources, we need EU policies recognising the entire value chain of agricultural producers. And we would need European regulation that is based on scientific evidence, based on fair, measurable sustainability criteria to avoid market distortions. And we hope we are confident that central and Eastern European region can contribute to further common European projects with these two statements. Now, regarding the Italian initiative, which is also which we also support, we agree that reducing the funds available negatively impact promotion policy and questions the original objectives that is making products more popular, increasing Competitiveness and also raising consumer awareness. So we are asking the commission to change the budget of the promotion policy to the average level of €170 million or to this year's €205 million. And it's important that in that the process that the promotion policy in the post 2027 cap has a dedicated and predictable budget. Long term. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-06-29 “Dear vice chair, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues. Hunger is committed to reducing poverty, and it is very important that I am very much agreeing with the Commission that we have to give lifelong services. However, it is a very complex solution because we have to harmonise sectorial policies. Health, education, employment, housing are very important, but we have to pay attention also to vulnerable groups, the people living with handicaps, for example. So services have to be very easy to achieve. Very clear rules are important and I think that we do not have to stigmatise those people. Why? Because first of all, society in itself can easily stigmatise. And those vulnerable people are very much able to stigmatise Themselves will have to help them in order to break out of that circle. One of the best examples is my example, because I lost my view and I felt stigmatized. And now today, I am here with you and thank you for that.”
  EU policy on disability inclusion & accessibility
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you very much. Dear chairman, Vice President, colleagues. We agree that these problems are common to the entire European Union. Housing prices are very high and it's very difficult for vulnerable people to find housing options. Uh, homeless people who are under care or who used to be in state Institutions. The new Hungarian government is committed to solving this issue, for instance, by supporting young people or supporting young students to have dormitory access. This is a very complex problem for everybody because housing policy cannot work without social policy. Thank you.”
  EU housing policy
• 2026-06-29 “Dear chairman. Madam Commissioner, let me introduce myself. My name is Vilma, I name it. I am the Minister of Social and Labour Affairs. It is a great honour for me to be able to be here. This is the first time for me. Indeed, we have great commitments with the cooperation for the EU institutions. Now, looking at our topic, I think mobile working poses difficult situations for individuals and administrations. It is important to consider both member states and the employers employees interests. It is also important to have transparent rulings in order to have smooth processes. It's also important, if I may remark, is that the administrative burdens should be taken off both from the administration of the Member States and from the stakeholders, employers, employees. The fast electronic data exchange is extremely important. Digitalization. Similarly, with these, we can avoid misuses. Furthermore, I think it is extremely important in the regulation that a typical and distant work should be regulated. This this is a requirement for a flexible labor market for the improvement and strengthening of the EU competitiveness. Thank you very much.”
  Regulation of teleworking labour conditions
• 2026-06-26 “31:22 - 10:32:50): Dear chairman, dear commissioner, let me start by saying, and dear council members, thanks for the very warm welcome that I received, as a new member of this energy council representing Hungary, 1st time. It was really a warm welcome. I appreciate that. It's a great topic to start with. Very important for Hungary. Very important for Europe. Renewable energy development is key. Permitting speed is essential. Simplification is absolutely necessary, to get renewable projects, up and running. Hungary just gonna be receiving a €1,500,000,000 support from the European Union for further grid development, which is really needed for our system as we have significant, solar capes capacities with 8 gigawatts capacity. And it is also enabling us to, start with wind development, which we are starting with speed and aiming to have 4 gigawatt development in the coming years, 700 megawatt for the 1st time. So permit is very important, and the speed is very important for us and for Europe. It's a balanced approach, and I know that there were quite a number of compromises we could hear from the dialogue. I think it's a great, great, new direction. So we oppress we express our appreciation for the hard work of everybody around the table, and we support this proposal. Thanks very much.”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• 2026-06-26 “05:24 - 11:07:42): Thank you, mister chairman. Capacity allocation and congestion management are critical, issues and topics for the European energy system. At the same time, we do have concerns regarding the center scenario and congestion, income, and those remain. We, of course, acknowledge the efforts made by the presidency which were really significant and well we are welcoming the improvement of the text. To be specific, regarding the central scenario, while stronger coordination at, European Union level is important, network planning, as we know from business as well, should continue to be based on technical expertise, technical modeling, methodology. Underlying the European network development planning all across Europe should remain close to those who operate the European network of transmission system operators and the national TSOs. We also do consider that, multi scenario methodology would provide a more robust basis for infrastructure planning than reliance on a single central scenario. 0.2 regarding the congestion income, we believe that it is that it's a mandatory allocation for specific investment purposes should not apply to member states that have already significantly exceeded the EU electricity interconnection targets. Hungary is 1 of them. Such member states have already made significant investments contributing to the in, to the integration of the internal energy system, in Europe. So despite the very significant progress achieved during the negotiations and the positive elements contained in the compromise text, Hungary considers that these 2 concerns, key concerns, have not been sufficiently addressed. However, in the spirit of cooperation and, on balance and considering that, in the European Parliament negotiation phase, these considerations can be renegotiated with spirit this, we support this proposal.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• 2026-06-26 “01:50 - 12:02:28): Thank you. So Hungary Malta, Bulgaria. Mister chairman, we need to mitigate the meth methane impact for Europe. We fully fully agree. However, I would join the others who said that the current geopolitical context and, also the need to ensure security of supply, indicates that, this proposal is, is a pragmatic proposal, and Hungary supports, this nonpaper developed by, the Czech Republic and joined by others. So we support. Thank you. Malta Bulgaria, Luxembourg.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you chair. I'm pleased to welcome this timely exchange of views, which draws attention to the fact that biodiversity conservation is not only an environmental issue, but biodiversity loss represents a systemic risk to the economy, financial stability, and thus also to human well-being for a long time. Ecosystem services were taken for granted. However, now we can clearly see that biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation have very tangible negative economic consequences if the population of pollinator declines. Yields are affected. If natural ecosystems, including soil quality, deteriorates, it retains less water, the risk of drought increases and production costs rise. These effects also spill over through supply chains, thereby weakening competitiveness. Let me mention one example where the natural buffering functions of wetlands disappear. Flash floods cause significantly greater damage. Conversely, where ecosystems are healthier and landscape level water retention is stronger, the area is more resilient to drought. Here they are more secure and fertilizer inputs may also be reduced. It is therefore crucial that nature related risks and opportunities are integrated into economic and financial decision making, and that the government shape the regulatory and financing environment accordingly. One of the most important conditions for the transition to a nature positive economy is that nature should not be treated as an invisible or taken for granted background factor, but as a real value and resource reflected in economic decision making.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, Minister. Hungary supports the French initiative it is important to address at EU level the growing environmental, economic and health risks posed by invasive alien species. We agree on the need for an EU level prioritisation of species, as well as on focusing available resources on those species that have the highest impact and whose spread is still manageable. We need to ensure the structured exchange of member states experiences and sharing best practices, in particular to improve the effectiveness of eradication and prevention measures. We support launching coordinated EU level action for a limited number of selected invasive alien species, which could also aim at full eradication where this is realistically achievable. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much, Nikos, and thanks the presidency for the timely for the timely discussion. Hungary regrets that the planned revision of the Reach regulation is not expected during the current Commission. We are missing an important opportunity to adequately address the most significant challenges, which are of paramount importance from the perspectives of public health and the protection of the environment. We therefore appreciate France's initiative, which keeps the issue of modernising the reach regulation on the agenda. We consider it particularly important that the amendments originally planned to be adopted through comitology procedures, do not suffer further delays. Similarly to Sweden and others, I would like first to highlight the amendments to the region axis. It is essential that they reflect the new hazard classes introduced under the CLP regulation, such as endocrine disruptors and environmental hazards. The digitalisation of information exchange throughout the supply chain is also extremely important. This can significantly improve efficiency and data quality while reducing the administrative burden. Furthermore, we support the introduction and wider application of new approach methodologies. These innovative solutions enable faster and more efficient decision making and contribute to animal welfare, while ensuring a high level of protection of human health and the environment. We encourage the Commission to make use of the possibilities offered by implementing acts, and provide more detailed information on what pieces of legislation it plans to adopt under secondary legislation. Finally, although it is essentially a member state competence, it is our common interest to improve the effectiveness of inspections as well, which requires examining all possible measures, and we cannot limit our focus to imported products and online sales. Effective inspections help prevent the production and placing on the market of harmful and polluting products in our countries. Our joint work to promote chemical safety and to protect human health and the environment cannot stop. Thank you.”
  Chemicals regulation
• 2026-06-25 “As a result of recent governmental change in Hungary, the establishment of a dedicated ministry for the living environment sends a clear political signal that environmental and biodiversity issues are of strategic importance. Our aim is to strengthen policy coherence between biodiversity conservation, nature restoration, climate adaptation, water management and sustainable economic functioning. Cooperation between governments, scientific and Civil society, actors and businesses is of key importance. We should also broaden the group of stakeholders who recognized that their operations and economic activities are closely linked to the state of nature, while also impacting it at EU level. We consider it useful to develop common frameworks that, in addition to public funding, support, nature related financing solutions and, where appropriate, the development of nature positive incentive systems, including regarding nature credits. At the same time, it is important to preserve the flexibility for the Member States. In conclusion, Madam Chair, it is clear that investing in nature conservation and restoration is not an additional cost, but one of the key prerequisites for long term economic competitiveness, resilience, and social well-being. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you chair. As this is the first time I am taking the floor in this setting, let me very briefly introduce myself. I am Levin Takahashi, state secretary for biodiversity in the newly established Ministry for Living Environment of Hungary. And I will be the one working with you in the next period of time on biodiversity issues. Turning to the agenda, we also think that the Life programme plays an important role in achieving EU and its member states environmental, nature, conservation and climate policy objectives. The currently independent Life programme has so far provided an important and stable source of funding for international environmental cooperation projects, and has contributed to the implementation of national environmental policy and promotes innovation and capacity building. We consider it important that the Life programme remain an independent EU funding instrument, given that its integration into broader funds would reduce its focus, impair its flexibility and make it impossible for many actors to access its resources. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you very much for the floor. And I would like to thank Romania and Slovenia for asking for this matter to be discussed. We think it is very important to manage the large carnivore populations by maintaining their protected status. However, the appropriate balance between environmental protection and social acceptance has to be found. Now, when it comes to making decisions on brown bear population management, we have to stay within the bounds of science and also the application of the Habitats Directive and also the interests of of the animals themselves. Now, on this basis, Hungary supports all Member States initiatives that are aimed at reducing human animal conflict, limiting agricultural damage, and the most important purpose ensuring human safety. This has to be done without infringing on the protected status of these animals. Therefore, we support Romania's proposal asking for the Commission to give guidance on animals that are protected for environmental reasons but are causing conflicts. Their populations should be managed not on an individual basis, but on a general basis. If the population numbers are high enough. Thank you.”
  Large Carnivores
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you for the floor, Madam Chair. Commissioner. Dear colleagues, Hungary considers aquaculture a sector of strategic importance which can contribute both to economic growth, social development and environmental sustainability. Sustainable aquaculture is a model in which these three pillars are not in tension, but rather reinforce each other. Aquaculture creates jobs, generates revenue, and extensive and semi-intensive production methods can play quite a significant role in conserving biological diversity and provide various types of ecosystem services. The evaluation the assessment of the Common Fisheries Policy has shown that the current measures did not result in a significant growth in the aquaculture sector. Therefore, we feel that the open coordination method has reached the limits of its potential. We feel that the sharing of experiences and best practices is a valuable tool. But in order to run aquaculture as a strategic priority, we will need more specific and more powerful measures at the EU level and also at the member state level. Therefore, aquaculture should receive a more central role in the common fisheries policy of the future, or perhaps even a separate aquaculture policy should be introduced at EU level. We feel that the Common Fisheries policy of the future should focus especially on the on the food supply, security and the reduction of our dependence on food imports and also adaptation to climate change. Sustainable aquaculture can play and should play a central role in achieving these objectives, while also contributing to easing the pressure on marine fish stocks and contributing rather significantly to secure food supply in Europe. Thank you very much.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Minister, we thank the presidency for all its efforts and hard work on this dossier. In our view, the future regulation should provide a solid foundation for enabling the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector to respond to future challenges in a more prepared, resilient and competitive manner. We welcome the bigger emphasis on the role of aquaculture in the text, as well as the incorporation of the Member States comments into the compromise proposal. We also view the latest ideas aimed at increasing the allocation dedicated for fisheries policy as a positive development. These changes may contribute to allowing Member States to use the resources available in a more flexible and efficient manner, in line with the actual needs of the sector in the current geopolitical and economic context. Eu funding must guarantee Europe's food security, support sustainable production and facilitate adaptation to climate change and market uncertainties. This requires a financial framework that provides stability, predictability and sufficient flexibility for member states at the same time. However, we continue to believe that a clearer definition of eligible measures would contribute to the more effective implementation of the regulation. Clear rules do not only strengthen legal certainty, but also help ensure that available resources reach stakeholders in the sector quickly and effectively. On this basis, Hungary is ready to continue the negotiations in a constructive manner in order to reach a partial general approach. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Many thanks, Madam Chair. Mr. Commissioner. Thanks. Many thanks to Belgium for putting this issue on the agenda. We think it's important to harmonise the EU requirements with international standards. Hungary has recently taken control measures against a number of infectious animal diseases with significant economic implications, including foot and mouth disease, uh, sheep and goat plague, avian flu or African swine fever. So we support the initiative to make sure that EU and member state funds available are used the best possible way as effectively as possible in a way that's proportionate with the health and economic risks carried. Therefore, we are asking the Commission to ease BSE monitoring requirements given this favorable epidemiological situation, and it's important to put in place legislation that are able to support public and animal health. High standards are proportionate and do not pose unnecessary burdens on those involved. Thank you.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you Marilena. First of all, Hungary welcomes the progress made on the sectoral regulations and wish to congratulate the presidency on the achievement. Nevertheless, as regards the regulation, we consider it necessary to underline that the proposed approval process of the NRP plans may delay the start of implementation of the chapters, thereby creating a risk that EU funds will not reach beneficiaries without interruption as of January 2028. In our view, this risk would have required a proper discussion during the negotiations and as a result, the introduction of certain chapter level flexibility mechanisms. We would like to ask to take into consideration our position during the forthcoming discussions of the NRP regulation. In addition, we reiterate that the NRP regulation is interlinked with the post 2027 cap regulations on which a general approach is expected to be reached only at a later stage. Therefore, depending on the future compromise on the Cap regulations, it may be necessary to revisit the Cap related provisions of the NRP regulation at a later stage. Thank you for your attention.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-06-16 “Country specific recommendations or rule of law recommendations should not become binding. They must genuinely remain recommendations. More favourable pre and cofinancing rates a more balanced commitment profile and more flexible decommitment rules are also needed. While positive changes have been made regarding the Common Agricultural Policy, the application of digressive should also be made possible on a voluntary basis. Similarly to the capping of area based income support in heading two. Further work is needed to ensure that less developed member States also have better access to the increasing resources of the Competitiveness Fund and Horizon Europe, we consider it important to preserve the European Institute of Innovation and Technology in having free support for Western Balkan countries should be strengthened and ring fenced. We do not agree with the principle that any additional support due to one country should be prioritized at the expense of other enlargement countries. We would have expected a larger reduction of the administrative expenditures. Among the first measures of the new Hungarian government was a significant reduction in the salaries of political leaders and in the expenditures of Parliament. We expect similar steps from the EU institutions as well. Regarding the horizontal elements, we call for the strengthening of the role of the Council and the Member States in the governance, as it has not been demonstrated that the steering mechanism would have any added value. Other, more concrete changes are needed instead. Overall, it is clear that we still face difficult negotiations during which Hungary will be a firm but constructive partner in order to find appropriate solutions to the concerns we have raised. Thank you for your attention.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• 2026-06-16 “Dear, dear president, dear colleagues, regarding the next MFF, the negotiating box with figures provides an opportunity to begin substantive discussions. We therefore thank the Cypriot presidency for its efficient work. At the same time, we regret that no changes have been made on the revenue side. Even though clear problems need to be addressed, the current system already puts too heavy burden on less developed member states, and the new package further increases regressivity. It is not a viable path for Hungary to become the largest contributor to the EU budget on a net basis during the next MFF. Such a situation would be unacceptable for us. Therefore, in order to reach an agreement in due time, the next presidency must address this issue without delay On the expenditure side, we do not dispute the importance of the new priorities, but their financing must not come at the expense of traditional policies. In line with the joint declaration of the Friends of Cohesion from May. Sufficient resources must continue to be provided for cohesion, policy and the Common Agricultural Policy. In this regard, we appreciate the step in the right direction that the Cypriot presidency has begun to strengthen national envelopes by reviving the Cohesion Fund to facilitate the faster start of the implementation of the single plans. Consideration should be given to the fact that the individual chapters of the Single Plan are characterised by sharply distinct policy objectives, territorial specificities and implementation measures. Therefore, sufficient flexibility should be ensured in the approval process through the chapter based approach to reflect this diversity. Also, in order to increase Implementability, member states should be granted greater freedom in the planning phase. The proposed Policy Reference Framework imposes excessive expectations and constraints on the Member States.”
  Cohesion and rural funding · Size of EU budget
• “Thank you very much indeed. Chair. Dear Kessler. I would like to wish the Polish presidency the best of luck and, uh, ensure that all of the work ahead of you will lead it to every success. I think that we are all here to ensure that we can make progress, because we are, I think, interested in ensuring that we can have a strong Europe. I'd like to wish our new colleagues who are here today also the very best for their future. Work with us. Dear Christoph. Dear Commissioner. I would like to express my gratitude to you for these proposals, and I'd also like to thank you for giving us the opportunity to discuss them. Hungary welcomes both proposals because we think that they will improve the position of farmers in the food supply chain. However, we would like to point out that the these proposals should, I think, be adopted before the legislative proposals for the Cap post 2027. There are a number of measures which are being proposed to improve the common organisation of agricultural markets. I think that we should further strengthen the type of cooperation which has a long tradition in our country. We can only have successful joint work if we are able to examine all of the proposals being put forward and compare them with the current practice.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you very much. I trust that we will find a solution to the Greek situation as soon as possible. Now, I would like to ask Peter to share the experiences of Sweden with African swine fever.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you, President. First of all, I'd like to emphasize [00:24:30] that today's challenges are Covid, the Ukrainian war. They require long term planning. But there are a lot of opportunities here as well. During the pandemic, special rules were introduced so that social benefits could still be guaranteed. So, for example, obligatory revision was postponed [00:25:00] and benefits are already paid, were automatically extended as a reaction to high inflation, which is a major burden on the population. Of course, several measures have been taken. Fuel and energy prices have been capped. The price. At the same time, we had price promotions for food and we had done a website introduced [00:25:30] for price supervision. Price monitoring and social benefits have been increased in line with the pensions and minimum income. On the second point, we think that the best way of combating poverty is to increase employment. So improving employment possibilities for people. [00:26:00] People who were excluded from the labour market and integrating them into the market. That is a priority priority for our government. Last question. In coordinating Social Security issues, we are focusing particularly on digitalization. We need to have information in real time with regard to consumers. We [00:26:30] already have to to cover the challenges which are already on the agenda. Technological development can strengthen social protection. It can be used for that. It's important for the increased technical opportunities to be used better. And also we need to increase access to social protection. And [00:27:00] we need to focus on people who live in extreme poverty. This can be a major help to them, particularly when services and benefits are not available in a particular place. So online services are very important and promoting access to those. Thank you very much.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “To start with the shortest straight start. Dear Commissioner, Chair, Dear colleagues, in [00:31:00] order to deal to deal with the transformative impact of new technologies, we must conduct a constant and thorough analysis of the labour market. We must take into account the psychological health of workers as well. The Hungarian government is well aware of this development and supports these measures. We must ensure that digitalisation [00:31:30] leads to improvements in the elimination of inequalities. We must provide training, further training and conversion training for all those who need it. We must also take into account the disadvantaged and ways of bringing the unemployed on to the labour market. I would like to emphasize that it's very encouraging to hear that the [00:32:00] share of female graduates in the Stem subjects has risen quite significantly in recent years. The involvement of women is essential to make up for the labour shortages in this area, and we hope that this will be helped by the fact that the Nobel Prize was given to a Hungarian [00:32:30] woman. We must also use measures to assess the impact of new technologies. Hungarian Hungary feels that the current legislative and institutional framework could allow the development of risks. And given the amount of maneuvering room given to the member states.”
  Funding for vocational training
• “Thank you David. Let me thank the presidency for organizing this high quality and timely conference. When discussing the many challenges agriculture faces. We cannot forget about transboundary animal diseases in the prevention, treatment and eradication of epidemics as highlighted in the title of the conference. Close cooperation between veterinary [00:19:30] authorities and stakeholders is necessary. I welcome any initiative that expands and strengths and or tools for fighting diseases, and at the same time maintains our animal health status and possibility to trade. Thank you.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you, Minister. Let me start by expressing our appreciation to the Czech minister presenting the non-paper which was joined by Hungary. We considered the proposed application dates are unrealistic. They do not reflect the necessary time for the development [00:18:30] of new engines, including the testing phase, as well as the time required for approval, testing and the process of homologation. In our view, the impact of the proposal is questionable. First, it diverts the resources of vehicle manufacturers from Co two reduction developments. Second, the deduction of air pollution that can be achieved by reducing emission limits is a very slow process. While the replacement of an ageing second hand fleet would have a faster impact. [00:19:00] However, the proposal does not take into account the possibility of replacing vehicles in different Member states. In conclusion, we believe further work is necessary on the proposal and Hungary remains open to work on that constructively. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you Ellen. We also would like to thank the enormous efforts of the Belgian presidency to find a compromise on this very sensitive proposal and for the text, which in our view, is balanced and provides a good basis for compromise. We share the objective of the proposal to set up a monitoring system which provides sufficient and comparable data in order to assess soil health throughout Europe.”
  Soil protection policy
• “(10:09:10 – 10:10:29): So in accordance with the applicable rules, we will now continue in open session. Any statement by the member states will be entered into the minutes of the meeting. We begin with the agreement in principle on the regulation amending Council Regulation, EC number 3 22 as regards funding arrangements and the use of diversified funding strategy. This amendment will allow the commission to align the funding method for the balance of payment facility to its diversified funding strategy already used for other instruments to enable faster and more efficient disbursement of funds. All clear. I see no objections. So I can conclude that the council agrees in principle on the draft regulation, amending council regulation number 3 30 twotwo thousand and 2 as regards funding arrangements and the use of a diversified funding strategy as set out in document 6,100 ninetytwenty 6 and agrees to request the consent of the European Parliament on the above mentioned draft council regulations. So now you can stop smiling because the cameras will be turned off.”
  Own EU resources
• “Thank you very much, chair. Commissioner, I would first of all, like to thank France for having raised this issue, since this does seriously affect Hungarian farmers and Hungarian food security to free EU free change, free trade agreements to support the EU's economic and commercial position. But we also need to recognise the fact that the agricultural sector is more exposed to competition from third countries. Which is why we should pay particular attention to protecting sensitive agricultural sectors. In this regard, it's particularly important to ensure that the principle of reciprocity is respected, whereby products from third countries should be subjected to the same production requirements as those that European farmers have to abide by. I agree overall with this initiative to require that these requirements be met in terms of pesticide residues. Nevertheless, this is something which needs to be looked at closely and for all the possibilities and consequences of of maximum limits and detection limits would have what the impacts would be for consumers in the EU and for farmers. So we need to define specific proposals for changes to legislation following an impact assessment by the Commission. Thank you.”
  Maximum residue levels
• “Thank you, Presidency and Commissioner, for putting the green architecture in the new cap on the agenda. Before I answer your questions, allow me a general comment. As the negotiations progress and new details of the commission's proposals are revealed. It is becoming increasingly obvious that the proposed architecture is not going to work. While the allocated funds will not suffice, I'm convinced, therefore, that the cap needs to be kept separate from ring fencing with a budget of its own. A structure on two pillars and with its own tailor made implementation and delivery rules. Coming to question one all supports compensating the farmers. Voluntary green undertakings have been successful in the present programming period, which makes the present level of ambition appropriate. An important element of the proposal is that payments of these voluntary actions may continue after 2027. However, I find it concerning that drafting an action plan has become compulsory as part of the supporting voluntary transition, which poses unnecessary administrative burden for the farmers. Coming to question two. I don't necessarily think it is a problem that a lack of mandatory green spending ratio has not been prescribed in the Cap. Conclusions of the recent programming period show that the level of green ambition does not depend on that.”
  Agricultural funding
• “As incoming presidency, [00:04:30] we would be happy to close this dossier. However, we would be more happy if the Belgian presidency could close this dossier because we believe that, uh uh, to effectively enforce the requirement of equal treatment, a uniform and EU wide directive is necessary to ensure the minimum level of legal protection in all Member States. Therefore, we from the Hungarian side support this directive. And thank you very much for your hard work. In order to make the text, [00:05:00] uh, to be able to be acceptable for us. Thank you.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “There [00:30:30] are barriers on regulatory, legislative and even on funding level of European research, which can have a negative impact on EU economy and also on the labour market. We should be aware of not building more barriers in networking, cooperation and funding. We need an economy and labour market focused research and development strategy. Research should be mission [00:31:00] based, and our mission cannot be different than strengthening the competitiveness of our countries. The word competition of research is just like auto second poses. As we know from the Nobel Prize awarded Franz Kraus in Hungary. We believe that in order to revitalise EU industry and economy, it is necessary to increase the share of innovative enterprises. This requires creating [00:31:30] favourable conditions and national, on national and EU level through attractive regulatory and fiscal framework, cutting the red tape and facilitating access to financial support. At the same time, enterprises should be strengthened by supporting their technological and organizational innovation, promoting partnership between industry and universities and involving them in knowledge and technology transfer activities. Responding [00:32:00] to the challenges of recent years, we have restructured the Hungarian higher education system with close collaboration with our universities, and the outcomes are more than promising. The Minister of Culture and Innovation has adopted a set of priorities strategic actions for 2023, with the overall aim of the Neumann Janos, so-called John von Neumann programme, to link universities and economy [00:32:30] to associate them in line with the EU innovation agenda. The programme has identified four focus areas to increase the economic impact of research and development spending. These are healthy living, green transition of the economy, digital transition and safety and security. Another important priority that the programme must have a clearly measurable economic, social and intellectual scientific impact. For this reason, [00:33:00] it is our priority to the economy. Utilisation of the knowledge generated by universities and the research institutes has to be realised as much as possible. We intend to realise this with three principles one. Research and development related financial support is given. We expect new products, patents, patents and incomes from these patents. We strongly support technology transfer. We put incentives in the sponsorship of universities and research institutes over [00:33:30] the past years. Hungary. Research Development Policy has launched a number of incentives to encourage cross sectional cooperation. I would emphasize it again do not build barriers. We need connectivity. We need competitiveness and equal access to research, financial support. Thank you for your kind attention.”
  Research priorities within the EU
• “Thank you very much, Theresa. And let [00:50:00] me also express our sympathy to the Swedish and Belgian delegation regarding the yesterday's terrorist attack. I would like to also thank Cerezo and the presidency team for your dedicated work and engagement to find a balanced compromise. We believe that the presidency's proposal contains many, many positive elements. For example, the provisions to facilitate. Flexibility support [00:50:30] schemes improved consumer rights, especially for the possibility of sharing. [00:00:00] And we also welcome the timely review to simplify the process of the capacity mechanisms. That was a very important element for us regarding the much debated contract for difference scheme. We believe that the presidency's compromise proposal strikes a good balance by eliminating specific rules for existing power plants. I think we we like this solution because it leaves the approval of [00:00:30] the direct support scheme for the lifetime extension projects to a case by case assessment. So generally, I think the presidency's proposal is a very good basis. However, let me highlight two points. Firstly, if we would need to amend anything in the presidency's proposal, let me highlight that we cannot support [00:01:00] any amendment which will discriminate nuclear energy. Should it be a direct or an indirect discrimination? Indirect discrimination, I mean that we would introduce such complex regimes or schemes that in the practice would hinder investors to build nuclear projects, should it be new nuclear asset or lifetime extension. And finally, [00:01:30] my key point and key concerns of, of my delegation is the 66, a paragraph which we already expressed at the June council meeting. And this is actually about the new rules on the emergency price regulation, because we consider that this proposal does not offer enough flexibility for the member states to apply price regulation. [00:02:00] I think the last one and a half year was very clear. Several member states had to intervene and had to apply price regulation schemes in their countries. And actually, citizens and businesses are very much exhausted by the very high energy prices. So we cannot have we cannot repeat it 2 or 3 times from citizens and businesses point of view to face those very high energy prices. [00:02:30] So that's why for living member states, the opportunity to to regulate their prices. We think it's a very crucial element. So until this provision is there, unfortunately we cannot support the general approach. So that's why I asked you, Theresa, to reconsider this paragraph. Thank you.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Thank you very much, chair. And I would like to thank the presidency for putting this topic on the agenda. I would also like to thank the Commissioner for the presentation. I have a generally positive view on the contents of this proposal, because it handles several issues which make the everyday life of farmers difficult, or that hinder a successful implementation of the Cap. I am happy and I would like to thank the Commissioner for making the Commission understand the message of the farmers and the Member States authorities, and for preparing the package. They just introduced the simplification, the reduction of burdens on small farms and the increase of their support, the expansion of the risk and crisis management toolbox Box and the simplification of controls and reporting are all elements that. Hungary has been supporting. I think it's extremely important to adopt this proposal as soon as possible in order to ensure continuity. The amendments must remain in the period after 2027 as well. Also, I need to talk about the procedure of the negotiations within the council. I think it's essential that the political decision should be made by US agricultural ministers here in the Council. This is how it has always happened in the past more than 60 years. If we diverge from this, that is going to create a very bad and dangerous precedent for the future. I believe that this has to be a priority issue for all of us, because it's US agriculture ministers who are responsible and who are accountable towards our farmers. How could we take personal political responsibility for regulations that we did not make a decision on? I believe this could cause very serious issues. And let's not think that this is over now. This is just the first step, but this might create a precedent. If we are not careful, then the Council of Ministers is going to become pointless. We cannot allow anyone to take our competences away. That's why I would like to ask you to do everything you can, so that the decision is made, where it belongs and where it has always belongs, namely the Agri Fish Council. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “First of all, let me thank Romania for raising the issue. We agree the EU pig sector is in an extremely difficult situation. Production costs are high and prices are low. Hungarian pig sector saw the price of pigs drop by 20% in January, compared to the same period the previous year. Now, due to last year's foot and mouth disease, saw our trade relations ruined and not all of them have been restored. And also, we are under pressure because of the Chinese anti-dumping duties and the extra stocks due to the ASP. Cases. Now, negative tendencies like this can be seen in the milk sector, which means we are not talking about isolated cases. This is a general crisis situation, and we are asking the Commission to consider whether exceptional support could be provided for the sector. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Measures that may appear coherent within a single policy area risk undermining overall competitiveness and driving production outside the EU. As for the automotive package, Hungary sees it as a meaningful step towards reinforcing Europe's global competitiveness and strategic autonomy. In the current global environment, the union must provide a regulatory framework that supports innovation, investment and industrial leadership. Ensuring genuine technological neutrality across the package is central to this, including in the implementation of the existing CO2 standards. Flexibility for manufacturers is indispensable for maintaining Europe's industrial base. We remain concerned that the current proposal on CO2 cars does not fully reflect these needs. The mandatory compensation scheme is problematic and still and fuel credits should function as incentives for decarbonization rather than obligations. Moreover, the feasibility of the proposed 7% steel credit target must be assessed realistically, given the limited availability and high price of green steel. Regulatory simplification is equally important. The automotive omnibus should reduce complexity and avoid introducing new administrative layers at a moment when may existing acts already require clarification. Thank you.”
  2035 ICE phase-out: strict zero-emission target vs. flexibility for carmakers
• “Thank you to the presidency for putting the issue on the [00:26:00] agenda. And thank you very much, Commission Commissioner, for the information provided. I consider it's really important to start a dialogue on the future of EU agriculture. And within that, the Cap for two reasons. Firstly, European agriculture has probably never faced so many difficult challenges as today. Take, for instance, the extraordinary weather events caused by climate change or the impact of the war. Secondly, we must not forget that [00:26:30] even though the current cap only started a year ago, the legislative proposals of the Commission had been made before the war and before the Green Deal. So it's obvious that the cap that the system will have to be adjusted to the new circumstances and for the exact needs of European farmers, will have to be identified. On the first question, I believe that. Whether or not our farmers will be able to continue to guarantee food security will depend on whether or not [00:27:00] we will have a well functioning cap and sufficient funding. A change of paradigm will be needed to make sure that European food production matches European needs, including the processing of locally produced raw materials. It is hardly sustainable practice if Europe keeps importing from third countries, while our own farmers are forced to give up their farming activities. What we need is a stable, predictable, farmer friendly and better regulated support system which [00:27:30] can incentivise farmers to reach the common goals set and to contribute to the green transition. Reasonable and achievable conditions should be set for them, finding the right balance between competitiveness and sustainability. Possibly the most important lesson learnt in the past years is that in addition to aid, farmers also need protection in crisis situations. Therefore, the safety net and [00:28:00] crisis instruments of the cap must be further developed as well to be able to actually help farmers overcome these crises. Making agriculture in the EU more crisis proof. And then on the second question, I'm convinced that the. Number one priority for us should be ensuring a fair income for farmers. Without this, we cannot reach the goals of the cap set out in the treaty. [00:28:30] Also, we should pay more attention to demographic issues, especially generational renewal, because ageing in the farming community remains an issue. Of course, sustainability and the sector's contribution to the fight against climate change are also priority issues. Building on our experiences with the new Cap, we should discuss how farmers can contribute to the green goals without [00:29:00] this having a negative impact on their competitiveness and without jeopardising food security. Finally, better and simpler implementation. Implementation for farmers and public administration should also be discussed. And briefly, on the third question, I believe that the Strategic Dialogue would be a good opportunity to sound out farmers and stakeholders on their needs. We should compare the outcome of the dialogue with the experience gained [00:29:30] from the implementation of the current cap. I believe that the result will clearly show where the future of EU agriculture lies. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you very much, Theresa. Hungary is committed to achieving the union's climate neutrality goals. In this sense, I would like to stress that we appreciate the work of the Spanish presidency. The text has improved in a lot of aspects. Nevertheless, some crucial questions are still pending. Just to mention a few improvements, we support the 7.5% target for semi trailers, the 2027 review [00:43:00] and exempting inter-urban buses from the 100% target. We also share that vocational vehicles should continue to be exempted from the scope. However, we still need to find a solution for the following major outstanding issues in order to create a better balance. We maintain that the 100% zero emission urban bus target for 2030 is unrealistic. The extension of the deadline to 2035 is vital for us. From the beginning of the negotiations, [00:43:30] we highlighted that more modest, achievable and realistic targets should be set. We could accept a maximum reduction of 40% for 2030 and 60% from 2035, and we can accept, of course, the 90% target for 2040. For us, technological neutrality is essential. That is why we support the inclusion of a carbon correction factor, as mentioned by Gilberto and Milan. We also support the proposal by Poland that extra EU trade aspects [00:44:00] should be taken into consideration and included in the review. Thank you very much.”
  2035 ICE phase-out: strict zero-emission target vs. flexibility for carmakers · Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you, dear Minister. Dear Commissioner, ministers, be thankful for the presidency for putting this important issue on the agenda. We believe that the energy transition can only be successful if it adequately reflects the specific operation and the economic conditions of the aquaculture sector, in particular freshwater production. In this context, a successful transition requires simpler, more predictable, predictable and technological neutral regulatory environment. Reducing administrative burden is important for the sector. At the same time, it is essential to ensure a level playing field, as many others stressed that as the imported products must also comply with EU sustainability standards. We should not forget that the energy transition requires a significant investment that the sector cannot finance on its own. It is therefore crucial to ensure stable long term financing, as well as the efficient use of EU funds and support for productive investments. We should also avoid financing solutions that could lead to an uneven level playing field between member states. There is a need to reduce investment risk in the sector and create an environment conducive to capital inflows. In addition, regional cooperation should be strengthened, taking into account the diversity of our sector. Transition should be therefore realistic, fair and economically viable. Finally, we would like to thank the Vice-Chair Vice Minister for raising the issue. Launching a Structured Dialogue on freshwater Aquaculture. We support all initiatives that contribute to achieving the objectives of agriculture and addressing common challenges more effectively. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “21:35 – 11:22:40): Thank you, president. Dear executive vice president, dear colleagues. Hungary welcomes the efforts made by the Cyprus presidency regarding the negotiations on the cybersecurity package and remains, of course, open to forward-looking cooperation with the incoming Irish presidency as well. Member states, including Hungary, view the agency for cybersecurity as an important and reliable partner and facilitator. We welcome the fact that the proposal suggests that the agency's mandate should be more streamlined. The main focus of ENISA's activities must remain on supporting member states in their cybersecurity-related tasks. The review of ENISA's mandate must not lead to a reduction of tasks that are already well and efficiently performed at the member state level. Hungary believes that a predictable and transparent regulatory environment is a key element for growth and a more competitive European entrepreneurial ecosystem, and this is particularly true in the context of digital regulations. Thank you.”
  Scope of EU cybersecurity obligations
• “Thank you. And congratulations on the successful conference. We had a constructive dialogue about the role of the cap and its challenges linked to food security. I think that in the debate, we shouldn't forget that food security is not just a strategic topic, but also a question of national security as well. So that's why it is crucial that we have a cap beyond 2027, which is based on two pillars and with an independent budget. As was mentioned in the conclusions about the future of the Cap. I think the dialogue that we began in Warsaw is a good basis for the discussions about the future of the Cap, and we would like to provide our full, unlimited support to the presidency.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you very much indeed. And I am extremely grateful to Romania for raising this issue on behalf of Hungary. I share concerns about the reduction in European livestock herds, and it's also concerning that we are reducing our animal products. It's important that good genetic stock is maintained. We support these elements of the proposal. However, it's important to bear in mind that ushering in these kinds of financial support might well distort competition on the livestock market for breeding animals. Therefore, we should apply a maximum amount in order to determine an amount of financial support that takes account of the requirements of the market and be appropriate.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, Maria. First of all, let me thank Austria for putting this issue on the agenda. I find it essential that we have measures in place that help consumers make sustainable and informed choices because this is good, this helps, producing good quality foodstuffs and strengthens short supply chains. By providing fair income to our producers, we also protect their interests. However, we must not ignore, the need to reduce the burdens in, the food chain, and we need to strengthen competitiveness. We must strike a balance between, agricultural production, food production and sustainability goals. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “It's still up to member States to define their internal procedures to implement the directive, and the text accommodates differences in national rules on driving disqualifications. Now, the scope of the directive is limited to serious driving offences, and the text was adjusted at several places to reduce administrative burden, for example. The duration of driving disqualifications to notify the content and format of the information to be exchanged, as well as the reporting obligations to the Commission. Now, apart from a limited number of mandatory grounds for exemptions that can be applied in a very simple way, a lot of flexibility has been left to member states to decide which grounds for exemption should be assessed. Um, the Commission will have the opportunity in a review to extend the scope of the directive and to further facilitate its implementation. I believe that the this compromise is fair to all. And now, first of all, let me give the floor to the commission and then to the delegations. Um, I'm asking everyone to limit your interventions to two minutes, please. But first, let's listen to what the commission has to say. Mr. Commissioner, the floor is yours.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you very much. I have already conveyed my message in person, but we would like to, uh, wish all the best for the Danish presidency for the next half a year. Uh, on the topic, uh, that has been raised, Hungary is committed to promoting, uh, the project. Uh, but we would like to emphasize the need for close communication and cooperation with non euro area member states and their citizens. Uh non-euro. Area members should not be burdened with additional responsibilities or treated in a way that could put them at a disadvantage, especially when it comes to meeting Deadlines. During the negotiations, it's crucial to pay special attention to safeguarding national interests, particularly regarding monetary sovereignty, economic stability, and the use of cash as well. Considering the potential use of the digital euro, Hungary would like to reiterate that it cannot replace cash. We believe that cautious approach would help ensure a feasible and legally compliant outcome, which I'm sure we all can agree is of paramount importance. We would therefore recommend taking the necessary time, as rushing the process could undermine the quality of final results if the negotiations take all these aspects into consideration.”
  Digital euro
• “Thank you very much, Chairman. First [00:28:30] of all. I'd like to express my sympathy to both Greece and Slovenia on the occasion of these natural disasters this year. We've seen a lot of sad examples of extreme weather events. So no, no member state is going to be spared. Or can. No country can be sure that they will [00:29:00] be spared the effects of extreme weather conditions, even if they take measures to abate them. Scientists feel that these natural disasters will be increasingly frequent in the future. Hungary is prepared to be prepared, be involved in the discussions on the crisis management instruments of the EU. Thank you.”
  Climate efforts
• “The EU and its member states have made several efforts to improve economic, social and territorial cohesion, but there are still challenges and shortcomings. The objective of these conclusions is to improve further work on this area at national and EU level. We asked the member States to promote regional development strategies as well as coherence and efficiency when it comes to local and micro regional policies, and we have to pay specific attention to people exposed to poverty and the risk of social exclusion, including the Roma. And we also asked member states to promote these policies and cooperation between various government levels, including local and community level policies, to promote regional developments and reduce internal inequalities. We ask the Commission to keep in, to take into account the need to reduce territorial inequalities in the new Social Pillar Action Plan and in the EU's strategy against poverty, which will be adopted in the near future. The Imco and SPC committees are asked to examine how these indicators could be improved, and how this knowledge can be shared by the Member States. I am happy to inform you, colleagues, that we now have a consensus and agreement on document 15 six 1024 and I would like to ask you to adopt to approve these conclusions. Before giving you the you the floor. However, I'd like to thank all delegations and the commission for the support and and flexibility. And now I'd like to give the floor to the commission. Commission, please.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Thank you chair. We support the presidency's approach to handle separately the negotiations of the new own resources and the negotiations of the MFF review. However, we think the indicated time schedule is quite ambitious and unrealistic with regard to the second basket of the new own resources, we are quite disappointed as the commitment made by the Commission to rebalance the unfairness of the first basket is not respected at all with this package. The proposals, especially the ETS based on resource with the higher call rate, are regressive and put heavier burden on the less developed member states, which goes against the protocol 28 of the treaty. Furthermore, the newest proposal concerning gross operating surplus is not a genuine resource. It is a simple national contribution based on an almost random statistical data. Moreover, befit which is the basis the Commission is trying to approximate with these statistics should not be pre-judged to any extent. Instead of creating unnecessary additional administrative burden and the whole new system to administer a completely unnecessary new statistics based on resource, we should use the GNI based own resources instead. The GNI based own resource has its well-functioning system, and it is fair and agreed by all Member States. With regard to the ambitious fit for 55 package, we believe that ETS auction revenues shall remain entirely at the Member States disposition. Reaching climate neutrality requires serious efforts from member states, which also depend on their national specificities. Therefore, it is important to use these revenues for climate purposes within their own competences. Concerning the Ukraine facility, the Commission's proposal raises a number of crucial questions that must be clarified during the technical work before our position is formulated. I would raise two issues at this point. First, we would appreciate if the Commission could provide us with an evaluation of how Ukraine uses the existing support. Secondly, I would like to refer to a problem which is particularly important for Hungary. Taken into account, the large Hungarian minority living in Ukraine. The Commission initially indicated that the payment of the funds will be based on strict conditionality. According to the proposal, in order to receive any funding from the facility. Ukraine has to fulfill an important condition respecting democratic rules, rule of law and to guarantee respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. In our view, the rights of persons belonging to minorities is of utmost importance. The Commission indicated in its oral report on Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia that the condition related to national minorities is not yet fulfilled. The recommendations of the Venice Commission are not applied. It is important that this milestone should be in conformity with the conditions set for Ukraine in its accession process. We can only consider this milestone fulfilled if the condition linked to the Ukraine's accession process is also fulfilled. We would highly appreciate if the Commission could confirm our common understanding on this matter. Thank you.”
  Own EU resources
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. First of all, let me thank Germany for raising this important issue. We fully agree that this disease causes enormous damage and its spread must be stopped. Uh, one of the tools, or rather, the pillars to do so is biosecurity. Without a high level of biosecurity, we have no chance for success. However, despite our efforts, we see that the current tools are by far not capable of delivering the expected results. The disease poses a number of new challenges for which we have to find solutions. Further to the already existing and applied measures, we also need additional new ones. One such measure could be responsible vaccination against the disease. The use of vaccination is hindered by many factors. Among these, trade barriers imposed by third countries on products of vaccinated animals should be highlighted. We must tackle these unfair trade barriers to ensure efficient disease management and the livelihood of our farmers and food industry. Thank you very much.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you. So, dear ministers, dear Vice Presidents, we thank the presidency for the update provided on this important file. Why the Hungarian government considers it utmost important to respect the principles mentioned, such as pluralism, independence of media and protection of journalists. We have [00:12:00] fundamental problems with the way Commission propose to do so. We maintain our position that the proposal violates the principle of subsidiarity and sovereignty of member states. It interferes with the exclusive competence of member states in several points. So we consider we would need more time. We should not rush the [00:12:30] process. So thank you.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• “Thank [00:36:30] you very much, Madam Chair. Let me start by saying that we welcome all initiatives that aim to improve the social inclusion of young people in Europe. Since in Hungary, it is a priority that young people can influence their life and have a real impact on their development of our societies and have adequate living conditions. We believe that focusing on young people with fewer opportunities is of paramount importance as well. Dialogue between decision makers and [00:37:00] young people is facilitated by the EU Youth Dialogue and in Hungary by the Have Your Say campaign, led by the National Youth Council. The EU offers many opportunities that can serve as incentives for young people to participate. Among programmes facilitating mobility, Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps, but a special focus on young people with fewer opportunities as well. It is our common mission to inform young people [00:37:30] about these opportunities and to address those who are traditionally difficult to reach. We believe that EU youth policy should effectively contribute to addressing the challenges and the social issues of next generations such as mental health, housing situation, sustainable development and climate change. We need to listen to young people about what matters to them. In Hungary, the proposals made by the regional student parliaments are taken [00:38:00] into account during designing policies through the work of the National Student Council and the National Student Parliament. In this context, we pay special attention to representatives of small communities and young people with fewer opportunities. So all in all, I would like to repeat that we welcome all these initiatives. Thank you very much.”
  EU volunteering programs
• “Thank you, dear Minister. Dear Commissioner, ministers, be thankful for the presidency for putting this important issue on the agenda. We believe that the energy transition can only be successful if it adequately reflects the specific operation and the economic conditions of the aquaculture sector, in particular freshwater production. In this context, a successful transition requires simpler, more predictable, predictable and technological neutral regulatory environment. Reducing administrative burden is important for the sector. At the same time, it is essential to ensure a level playing field, as many others stressed that as the imported products must also comply with EU sustainability standards. We should not forget that the energy transition requires a significant investment that the sector cannot finance on its own. It is therefore crucial to ensure stable long term financing, as well as the efficient use of EU funds and support for productive investments. We should also avoid financing solutions that could lead to an uneven level playing field between member states. There is a need to reduce investment risk in the sector and create an environment conducive to capital inflows. In addition, regional cooperation should be strengthened, taking into account the diversity of our sector. Transition should be therefore realistic, fair and economically viable. Finally, we would like to thank the Vice-Chair Vice Minister for raising the issue. Launching a Structured Dialogue on freshwater Aquaculture. We support all initiatives that contribute to achieving the objectives of agriculture and addressing common challenges more effectively. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Thank you very much indeed, chairman. Colleagues. I would like to tell you something about the situation regarding FMD in Hungary. In Hungary, there have been no cases of FMD in the last 50 years. Until recently, on the 6th of March, we confirmed a case of the disease in a dairy cattle holding in northwest Hungary, close to the Slovak border. Everyone is afraid of this disease. Even a small outbreak can have catastrophic consequences, so it's very important to stop its spread. Veterinary authorities have taken strict measures and very strict measures indeed, which go beyond EU measures have been implemented. So, for example, we have stopped export of species which might be susceptible to the disease. And thanks to the work of the veterinary authority, some restrictions were able to be lifted. However, in the area where the outbreak actually took place, restrictions are still in place and this covers about 4% of Hungarian territory. Furthermore, our measures, I think, were justified because over the last few days the disease was also found in a neighboring area. Although we haven't had any new outbreaks, we still have ordered various measures, and some third countries and EU member states have also introduced trade restrictions on leaving living animals and animal products, despite the fact that at EU level the situation is fine at the moment. I would, though, ask you to help us stick to EU standards. Assessing the damage an assessment of the damage has not yet been completed. We have to reduce producer losses and we need to ensure trade relations with third countries are restored and therefore we would like to ask for the support from the European Commission to conclude, as we can see. Unfortunately, this disease knows no borders and it is in all our interests to prevent further spread. We can certainly help each other in order to uphold the rules. That's the only way that we will indeed prevent that.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Separate programs and policies, especially ones that prove that they can contribute to the competitiveness of the EU, should be maintained in a separate and independent way. In our view, cohesion policy is such a policy. We are against reshaping the cohesion policy modeling on the RF, which has already proven a failure and undermined the basic principles of cohesion funds. We need a dedicated cohesion fund, a stable fund. Concentrating on less developed regions. We also support a separate and independent cap with stable funding. We are expecting The migration priorities to be mirrored in the new fund, and we are also expecting the same norms to be applied all along the EU's external borders. It is probable that most countries of the West Balkans will be ready for accession before 2034, and we will have to have funds for that. It is especially regrettable that while there will be no financing for. Traditional EU policies, there will be thousands of new places created in the administration, and there will be hundreds of thousand euros spent on Frontex, which has proven unable to protect external borders so far. This proposal in its current form is unacceptable for us. It should be withdrawn and reshaped. Thank you.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Thank you very much for Poland for putting this question on the agenda. We fully support the contents of this document. And I'm convinced that the European Union should only conclude international agreements that take into account of the interests of the European farmers. This is dictated by common sense, the preservation of our food sovereignty and the long term European agriculture strategy. When we look at the agreements with Ukraine and Mercosur countries, sadly the situation is not the same. The excessively high quotas. Insufficient protective measure. The impact of the two agreements putting the European agriculture in a hopeless situation. This is especially true given that neither agreement has managed to make any meaningful progress in terms of requiring the same production standards which which further undermines the competitiveness in an already declining sector. I hope that the farmer protests of the recent weeks and the outcome of the vote in the European Parliament will give the Commission both a thought, um, with regard to both future trade agreements and application of the Mercosur agreement. And in the meantime, I also strongly agree with the Polish proposal that the Commission should set up a compensation fund to support European farmers who have suffered damage as a result of this irresponsibly concluded trade agreements. Thank you very much.”
  Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports · Trade relations with Mercosur
• “Thank you very much for giving me the floor. I wish to start by expressing my condolences [00:31:00] to the citizens of France and Germany for the recent attack. These are horrible, horrible events and everything should be done to prevent them in the future. To that end, we must protect and ensure peace and security and should consider exactly how these events took place. Turning now to the issues in front of us today, I am particularly pleased that the presidency has taken up these issues, and I thank the presidency [00:31:30] for all of their work because they've done a great job recently. We need to change the way we approach these matters. Criminal law often focuses on the offender, and now we're changing tack and looking at the victim. That is outside the traditional concepts of criminal law. We have often heard [00:32:00] the argument that this issue compensation, shouldn't be considered in criminal matters, because the inherent logic of criminal law is different. For many years, Hungary has built up experience in these areas because since 2007 we've built up a completely different system to what we had before. We've reorganized, we've set up victim protection mechanisms. Providing [00:32:30] victims with financial and other forms of support. Often when you are a victim, you don't know exactly who you need to turn to, who you have to contact. That's why I think that these compensation issues are particularly important, and the speed of compensation is of the greatest importance. Speedy support is necessary because that's the way that we can [00:33:00] really stand shoulder to shoulder with victims. However, if compensation were only possible as part of a criminal proceeding, it would slow everything down. It would slow down the criminal proceedings on the one hand, which is not something that we want. We want to accelerate those proceedings. Therefore, we think that parallel tracks are better. We want to retain the civil proceedings for compensation [00:33:30] so that victims can. Have their rights respected through the civil track. Turning to the rights of children, we shouldn't adopt a single uniform model. There are instances where the Barnhouse model is not the best. We want to retain flexibility. I thank you.”
  EU policy on victims' compensation rights
• “Thank you Louise. I thank the Spanish presidency for the work done and for the progress report. The proposal is very important for us because seed production, plant propagating, material production and varietal selection have century old traditions in Hungary. And of course, we must not forget that the plants used in agriculture are key genetic resources [00:23:00] which form the basis of food production. We agreed that the EU regulations on plant propagating materials need to be revised. We need regulation that allows for retaining existing national characteristics, and which do not unreasonably increase the administrative burden on businesses and authorities. I think it's important to expand European level monitoring and harmonise it across member states. [00:23:30] I believe that this should be done by respecting existing member state practices. In future, we will need high quality, properly documented seed and plant propagating material production, one that is able to cope with the challenges of climate change. This is essential for maintaining the wide variety of wood species in Hungary, and the biological diversity diversity of our forests. I cannot agreewith the mandatory introduction of national contingency plans. However, obviously we must be prepared for unexpected events, but I do believe that contingency plans should remain in the competence of national states. Member states. National forestry authorities are best placed to assess what measures are needed in forests to effectively manage emergency situations. To conclude, let me wish the Belgian presidency every success in the negotiation of proposals. [00:24:30] They can count on our constructive support.”
  Sustainable use of seeds in EU policy
• “Thank [00:34:00] you. Minister. Let me start by thanking Romania, Slovakia and Finland for raising this issue. Uh, Hungary, support the call for a careful examination by the Commission, together with the member states experts. Whether a change of the conservation status for the brown bear population may be justified. Taking into account the recent serious accidents. In this context, we would stand ready to support an eventual proposal for modification. Hungary also [00:34:30] welcomes the intention suggestion for international cooperation on the management, monitoring and research of populations. We are ready to further enhance knowledge sharing on the large carnivore population in Hungary, and to consult with neighboring countries on the management of these populations. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• “Thank you very much, Mr. President. And first of all, let us thank the Commission and DG agri for drafting and presenting the strategy. We consider generational renewal a really important issue, especially if we take into account that ageing of the farmer population is becoming a bigger and bigger problem in almost all the member states. We will examine the strategy, of course, in detail, but according to our preliminary views, improving access to land, finance and knowledge or increasing the resilience are all key issues and indispensable for encouraging generational renewal. I want to highlight two particular elements of the strategy, which at first sight raised concerns for us and hearing other interventions. We are not the only ones. Firstly, like a number of member states, we neither think that it's realistic to use 6% of the amount allocated to cap income support for generational renewal, especially if we take into account the proposed cuts in the Cap budget. And we shouldn't forget that the 6% cut is not included in the Cap legislative proposal, and we hope that it won't be forced through the Cap recommendations. And secondly, we are strongly against the idea of depriving retired farmers from from direct payments. We do not think that such a radical instrument is needed to force generational Renewal. Instead of this, we believe we should put even more emphasis on supporting the transfer of farms. To conclude, I want to confirm that Hungary's willingness to participate constructively in the council negotiations regarding the strategy. Thank you very much.”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
• “We also welcome the Commission's initiative, since energy storage will play a crucial role in maintaining our grid stability and reduce volatility of energy prices. We are looking forward to the tripartite agreement to which we propose the following elements. Firstly, defining and regulating minimum safety requirements, taking into account the safety risks posed by products produced in third countries. Secondly, strengthening European manufacturing capacity for energy storage device components and equipments in relation to the implementation of the Net Zero Industry Act regulation. We also propose to support recycling activities, taking into account the limited lifespan of energy storage equipments and issues of responsibility and in connection with CapEx subsidies. We should review the block exemption regulation in terms of restrictive provisions. And finally, we proposed to support technologies that no longer require development, but which are not yet commercially mature. Thank you very much.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you, Austria, for requesting this agenda point. Fully share your concern. When I look at the fertiliser prices and sales trends, reduction in the use of input materials has a seriously negative impact on the entire agriculture. I find it essential that the commission should look at all means that could reduce fertiliser costs and improve our farmers competitiveness. Sebum regulation further weakens the position of the producers, which is why I support postponing its entry into force in case of fertilisers. Thank you very much.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “21:13 – 10:23:54): It's a great pleasure for me to be able to participate at the last JHA Council under the Cyprus presidency. Our government started its work only a few weeks ago, but we did receive from the voters, from the population an unprecedented mandate, and this points clearly to our commitment to the EU. In the very first days of governmental work, we tried to take the necessary steps, which are very important for the EU's values. And also when it comes to sincere cooperation, so we did try to take the symbolic steps, which are a clear signal to our European partners. They show that we are committed. When it comes to parenthood, this regulation, draft regulation is very complex. And a lot of relevant questions when it comes to practical applicability still need to be sorted out. Of course, these elements of the regulation are closely interlinked with each other, so it would be very hard to pinpoint specific elements or problems which would have to be treated as a priority in order for us to be able to move on. Scope, applicable law, jurisdiction or the certificate. The rules on these cannot be clearly delineated from each other, but what we need is a system that is balanced and it works in practice. Obviously, a lot of time has passed since the negotiations began, but we believe that the technical level discussions will have to be continued until we get closer to a draft which is supported by a significant percentage of the member state. That then we will be able, as member state, to decide responsibly about the draft, whether or not we can support it, and then we can also think in terms of alternatives. So this means that we can support the idea to support technical work. And obviously, we can speed this up because there will be no similar parallel files when it comes to civil law. In the next period, there will be no other files, and we are very happy.”
  Jurisdiction conflicts between EU and national courts
• “Thank you. Chair. Dear Commissioner, we thank the French delegation for the information. We share the concerns regarding the future availability of medical devices and especially in vitro diagnostics. We cannot allow a situation where the care of patients is jeopardized due to the non-functioning of regulatory framework. That is why we support a thorough assessment of the current situation and, if needed, [00:16:30] the modification of the legislation. Moreover, Hungary is willing to cooperate in improving the efficiency of this legislation. Thank you.”
  Medical devices
• “Thank you Minister. First of all, [00:25:00] we would like to thank Finland to raise this topic to today's council agenda. We share the view that the revision of the current legislative framework is crucial in order to find ways of facilitating the management of challenges posed by large carnivores. In case of certain wolf population, amendments of the Habitats Directive might be justified. It shall be examined whether such a population exists. [00:25:30] We also agree with the notion of a strengthened transnational cooperation in the field of population management, monitoring and research to realise that we are ready to share data of the relevant, um, uh, animal population. Further to that, we stand ready to consult with neighbourhood countries on the management thereof. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• “And also we were trying to find methods to alleviate the consequences of such outbreaks. We built on the work of the previous presidencies, that is, Spain and Belgium. And you will find the summary of the work in document 16 26524. These activities have covered areas ranging from biosecurity to vaccination. And as for the people involved in the work, obviously there were ministers, competent authorities, scientific experts and stakeholders. You will remember, I'm sure that I remember I informed you in September of a summit on vaccination organized together with Western Balkan countries. I would like to thank the other two presidency members of our presidency trio, and I would also like to thank you personally and the, uh, the authorities that held us in your authorities, who helped us in our progress. I think these steps were very important in finding a solution. Now, as we plan our activities for the future, we should not forget the principle that prevention is always better than cure. Now the flow goes to Italy and they're going to present this AOB item item on animal diseases. I'd like to remind you that you will find additional information on this point in document 1656124. Francesco, the floor is yours.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “Thank you very much, Lars. We welcome. The European Council will discuss the 2040 targets. And we repeat ourselves declaring that in our view, ACL needs a decision and guidance from the highest political level. We also welcome that the presidency recognises. We have stated from the very beginning that it would be premature to to reach a general approach today, but we agree that a political discussion is indeed vital to progress with the negotiations. We still think the 90% target is too ambitious. The discussion on the target level is not closed. We agree with Slovakia that the wisest choice would be to start from a lower realistic number, which could be increased in the future if needed. We also wonder who is going to reach that target? I would suggest to examine closely member States current emission reductions. Hungary has already reached nearly 48% emission reduction, while the European average is 38. Some parties that are calling for the highest ambition, however, lag behind in their domestic achievements. We should be more realistic. We have less than 15 years until 2040 and we need to lead by example. The world is not following numbers we put on a paper. They are only going to follow us if they see that ambition leads to the well-being of citizens and prosperous and competitive economies. We are open to use international credits from 2031. However, we would need to further elaborate the details. We agree with Poland that by stating that credits cannot be used under the ETS, we already discard the possibility that the Commission examines it in the ETS review on Lulucf. We cannot confidently be the next target on the decreasing sinks given the huge fluctuations. Recovering sinks requires a long time. We cannot find short term solutions. We share the assessment of France that sectoral specificities need to be reflected instead of sanctions based system.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Measures that may appear coherent within a single policy area risk undermining overall competitiveness and driving production outside the EU. As for the automotive package, Hungary sees it as a meaningful step towards reinforcing Europe's global competitiveness and strategic autonomy. In the current global environment, the union must provide a regulatory framework that supports innovation, investment and industrial leadership. Ensuring genuine technological neutrality across the package is central to this, including in the implementation of the existing CO2 standards. Flexibility for manufacturers is indispensable for maintaining Europe's industrial base. We remain concerned that the current proposal on CO2 cars does not fully reflect these needs. The mandatory compensation scheme is problematic and still and fuel credits should function as incentives for decarbonization rather than obligations. Moreover, the feasibility of the proposed 7% steel credit target must be assessed realistically, given the limited availability and high price of green steel. Regulatory simplification is equally important. The automotive omnibus should reduce complexity and avoid introducing new administrative layers at a moment when may existing acts already require clarification. Thank you.”
  2035 ICE phase-out: strict zero-emission target vs. flexibility for carmakers
• “We appreciate the efforts that have been made by the Spanish presidency and the Commission to promote negotiations on this issue. We have to have a balanced [00:27:30] approach, and we believe that the important thing is. That for new technologies. Member states production rights are guaranteed. We need to see what technologies are going to be used to produce plants on our territory. We believe. That we need to keep in mind the importance of solidarity and in the Council's position. Therefore, we have to make it possible for there to [00:28:00] be an opt out. We need to focus on the key elements, and we are therefore not in favor of these criterias would be able to be amended by the Commission through delegated acts. It is absolutely vital that we clarify what Member States rights are. So as we properly understand the consequences of these measures for farmers. We need to also take into account the fact that the proposals need to be in line with our international obligations. For environmental protection. We also need to take action to promote alongside environmental activism. We need to take action to protect human health, and we therefore need to have a proper control of energy plants. For. Labelling as well. We need to take into account consumers health, and we hope it will be possible for us to come up with a set of rules that take into account the principle of subsidiarity. Environmental and health issues and consumer protection. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you, Maria, and thank you to the presidency for putting these very important topics on the agenda. Hungary has supported the four main priorities set out in the vision from the outset over the past year. I particularly welcome the generational renewal strategy, as facilitating the entry of young farmers is crucial. I also look forward to the forthcoming livestock strategy. I consider the adoption of the cap simplification package to be a significant step forward, and it is essential that these achievements are preserved in the post 2027 cap. I also positively assess the Food and Feed Safety omnibus proposal, and look forward to its swift adoption. Strengthening producers protection position in the food supply chain has also seen important progress, including the adoption of rules on cross-border unfair trading practices and a targeted amendment of Common Market Organisation regulation. As I said, we generally agree with the visions objectives, but ultimately any strategy is only as valuable as its implementation. In this respect, the post 2027 cap will play a key role. We continue to have serious concerns about the Commission's proposals, particularly the single plan single fund approach, which does not provide an adequate framework either financially or structurally, to achieve the objectives set. Therefore, I am convinced that we have to improve these proposals. The Visegrad countries, along with Bulgaria and Romania and their agriculture ministers, outlined their Expectations last week in a joint declaration.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you Allah. First I would like to express my appreciation to the bad presidency for the work they've done on this important file. I believe it is crucial to ensure environmental sustainability, ides and the food sector as they represent two of the most resource intensive industries causing significant environmental impact. We are of the view that the tax is well balanced and addresses most of the major concerns of the member states regarding the food waste reduction. I recommend this before that we should set a realistic and achievable target which does not jeopardise the competitiveness of the European Union. We would like to express our special thanks for the compromise text on the extended producer responsibility rules for textiles. And we are grateful that our position and nothing has been taken into account finally on behalf of the incoming Hungarian presidency, provided of course that the council position would be adopted, our plan is to start the inter-institutional negotiation with the parliament as soon as possible, make progress and hopefully reach a political agreement. Thank you very much.”
  Food waste
• “The proposal is still not flexible enough. The limits are overly rigid. The 3% cap for fuel credits is not substantiated, therefore should be removed or increased. Sustainable fuels should be incentivized as they have great potential in transport emission reductions. We support the use of low carbon steel while noting its limited availability and recommend adding other materials such as aluminium. The crediting should start earlier. These would provide more flexibility and yield emission reduction benefits. Averaging should be five years instead of three. The industry's developments should be closely monitored, including infrastructure competitiveness and availability of raw materials. Ev uptake and technological progress. We should do a follow up whether the flexibilities are effective. We think that the 2035 review is too late and should be brought forward to 2030. We agree that we need an effective and predictable legislation and should not recourse to continuously revisiting the legislation for that. However, the most important prerequisite is to agree on a realistic and effective legislation. Now, while maintaining the pathway to electrification we need. Pragmatism and ambition to be coupled with economic feasibility and competitiveness. Thank you very much.”
  2035 ICE phase-out: strict zero-emission target vs. flexibility for carmakers · Road transport environmental policy
• “And thank you, Minister. We wish to start by thanking Austria to highlight the importance of this issue for our future. Hungary fully shares the concerns raised [00:23:00] regarding the authorization of the production and distribution of lab grown meat. In our view, there might be many negative consequences that cannot be assessed in advance without a comprehensive impact assessment. These are primarily the protection of the human health, as well as the impact of the expected decline in the traditional animal husbandry based production on agriculture and rural areas. Therefore, it's essential [00:23:30] to assess and objectively evaluate the health, environment, social and economic effects of the lab grown meat production compared to the currently used production methods. Without the comprehensive impact assessment and social consultation, it would be irresponsible to introduce regulation and authorisation in a subject that affects many areas and brings about a fundamental change compared to the current perception. Thank you.”
  EU policy on lab-grown meat
• “It is essential to find an appropriate solution to control them. We therefore ask the commission to relax the rules on the approval of active substances for substances that play a key role in the control of quarantine pests and their vectors. We also ask the Commission to consider making high resolution satellite images available to Member States for the purpose of detecting infected vineyards and monitoring any drubbings. At the same time, the rules on support should be made more flexible, and efforts should be made to ensure that farmers do not lose their eligibility for support if they use a specific insecticide that is not authorised for support, but is essential for control. And early detection is also crucial. And to this end, it is essential to make detection more effective. In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that in order to control the pests, it is very important that in all concerned Member States, phytosanitary measures be properly implemented. The spread of the pest can only be slowed down through joint action by all stakeholders.”
  EU policy on pesticides
• “10:41 – 10:12:05): Thank you, president, direct executive, vice president, dear colleagues. The minister apologized for not being able to hear today because he has an important vote in the parliament. Hungary supports all initiatives that reduce bureaucracy and strengthen competitiveness. We believe that highly digitalized and interoperable services are the right step to have businesses of all size. We thank the presidency for the text, which has moved in the right direction on several aspects by improving the definitions, respecting the already well functioning mission procedures, and safeguarding member states' competence in company law. However, introducing a new solution should not mean that we simply replace established systems without a careful look at where it will actually be useful in practice. We still need a clearer view of the concrete use cases where the wallet will bring real added volume and not cause unnecessary burdens for public administrations. We share an optimistic view for strengthening the trust architecture, but it should not come at the price of eroding their functioning national processes. All in all, we can support the general approach, but at the same time, we must keep in mind that many of the ambitions in the in this text will only become reality if the implementing acts properly reflect member states' practical needs and ensure a workable solution in practice. Thank you for your attention.”
  Electronic identity
• “Thank you. On the Steel and Metals Action Plan, Hungary considers the framework both necessary and well targeted. For us, the decisive question is whether implementation will deliver the fundamentals that industrial needs affordable and predictable electricity, effective trade, defence instruments capable of addressing global overcapacity and secure access to strategic feedstocks. Above all, steel scrap, which is essential for the electric arc furnace production and at the same time the internal market must remain fair and undistorted. Differences in energy prices or state aid capacity cannot be allowed to translate into structural disadvantages within the EU. Flexibility in implementation is important. So the national industrial structures and value chains specificities can be reflected. The plan must support primary production, downstream processing and recycling in a balanced way. If it's to strengthen resilience across the full ecosystem. In this context, I would like to mention that it is difficult to get financing from the Innovation Fund, even for green steel projects that are recognised as strategic. Turning to chemicals, the competitiveness gap facing the sector has become structural. If Europe wishes to avoid further capacity reductions and the growing dependence on production outside the EU. Urgent action is required, as several of us already called for this morning. The chemical industry should be treated as a horizontal sector, whose specific circumstances must be taken into account in the design and implementation of other EU Policies without such an integrated approach.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Secretariat general that we can begin streaming. The next item on our agenda is the challenges faced by the EU food chain, which will discussed in a single unit by France and Spains European coordination point for animal health vaccination under any other business. The union's food chain is a major sector evidenced by the fact that approximately 29 million people are employed by agriculture, food processing, food retail, and catering. Even though this sector is producing a very major part of the added value, it's facing several challenges. And in recent years we've on several occasions discussed some of these and recently we've seen many public health and animal health and significant plant and animal diseases important from an economic point of view and they have been making major losses and also burdening the participants of the food chain. There are many other challenges in the sector. The reasons lie partly in the rise of antimicrobial resistance and the lack of detailed rules. There are also difficulties due to the discrepancy between requirements within the EU and outside the EU in terms of sustainability, animal welfare and consumer information. In June, the council adopted conclusions calling on the commission to examine how we could improve the management of animal and plant health programmes, co-funded by the EU and as part of the single market programme. And the commission was also tasked with the examination of how to alleviate the food chain, the food chain players administrative burdens. So this is what we will be discussing today and we'll be talking about how we can best meet these challenges and improve the competitiveness of the EUs food chain. And the point is that we need to make sure that the players of the food chain continue to provide EU citizens with sufficient safe and nutritious food stuffs. The presidency has prepared a document. The number of the document is 1 4 2 7 2 stroke 24, which has been distributed to all of you. And there are two questions set out in this document which serve as the framework for today's discussion. So the first question is do you share the list of challenges highlighted? Do you see other major challenges that the EU food chain could face in the coming years? The second question is, in your view, which measures would add value and help reconcile the competitiveness of the EU food chain while continuing to provide safe and nutritious food, insufficient amount to EU citizens? So first I'll ask the commission to present its point of view on this topic and then I'll give the floor to Spain to inform us about document 1 4 5 9 2 stroke 24 on the European coordination of animal vaccination. And I'll also ask the delegate to answer the two questions as he goes along and then the delegations will have the floor. Without further ado, the floor goes to the commission. Yanu, you have the floor, so it's your turn.”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• “It is very disappointing that despite of the request of majority of the member states during the negotiations, the Commission has failed to provide adequate information regarding the reasons for this exclusion or the future of the EIT. Therefore, it is for us, the Council, to address this matter and to to clarify the legal uncertainty. And we call for the Cypriot presidency to address this matter regarding the innovation ecosystem and the implementation of the knowledge Triangle by reintegrating the EIT and its kicked to the proposal. Third, many, many ministers also referred to the issue of governance is a critical precondition for the way forward. Um, we require clear, defined strategic priority setting mechanism aligned with the governance structure that defines the roles and links between Horizon Europe and the Competitiveness Fund, as the current alignment presents certain challenges and requires a fundamental review. In our view, the Spanish proposal for the operational and pragmatic Programmatic separation of these instruments could offer a viable solution. Therefore, we would support that approach. And finally, as many others around the table said, nothing is agreed until everything is agreed. With this, we wish good luck for the achieved or set ambition for May. Thanks.”
  EU-level coordination of research agendas
• “Thank you, Peter. First of all, I would like to wish you a successful presidency in the next half year. We will support for your work. And secondly, I would like to thank Portugal for its proposal. Hungary fully supports the document or regular actions taken so far have confirmed Hungary's commitment to the protection of animals during transport. In our view, the revised legislation should focus on the actual improvement of animal welfare, taking into account the latest scientific and socioeconomic aspects. As part of this, the most important task is to ensure the precise definition uniform, interpretation and implementation in the Spirit. I look forward to the Commission's proposal and to the technical dialogue. Thank you very much.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you for the information provided on this package. We trust that the Danish Presidency will conduct the Trilogues, which result in a balanced legislative text which preserves the original objectives of this package and can be duly implemented. In this context, I wish to highlight two priorities for Hungary. First, the protection period shall not be extended beyond 11 years. And second, we call the presidency to defend the Ballade exception. It shall cover the conduct of public procurement procedures, as this in itself does not mean the start of actual commercialisation. Thank you.”
  "Buy European" provisions (generic)