Dr. Tibor Benkő: Europe and the Nations of the European Union should be able to Defend their Own Citizens

Following the meeting Minister of Defence Dr. Tibor Benkő noted that in the conference "we are seeking to put through the solution that Europe’s security should depend upon the European countries that we have to take care of ourselves." He highlighted in respect of the threats to the European continent, that in spite of the fact that there are nations – such as our motherland – which got the illegal migration under control by different legal, physical and other measures, it is clear, that illegal migrants still arrive to several countries of Europe up to the present day.

He reminded "this illegal migration creates a breeding ground for terrorism, as in the fall of 2015 very many such persons entered Europe – via Hungary, too – who have been later identified as members of various terrorist organisations."

In the context of the European togetherness Defence Minister Dr. Tibor Benkő added that they wish to form the co-operation in defence matters in such a way that the resulting joint capabilities complement and not duplicate the capabilities already existing thanks to the NATO membership. "I think that there is a solution to this, first and foremost to be sought on the political level. And it is no questioning that Europe, the European Union should be able to defend their own citizens" – he pointed out.

Minister of Defence also emphasised that Hungary supports the accession of the Western Balkans States to the European Union, in order to guarantee the security of the Southern borders of Europe.

Photo by Veronika Dévényi