PM Orbán congratulated Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on his electoral victory, noting that international observers, including a delegation from Hungary, found the election to be free and democratic, About Hungary
reported.
"I am watching the debate that erupted around the election, reading the assessments of international organizations, and I see that no one dares to question that this was a free and democratic election," stated PM Orbán, adding that Hungary had witnessed the process firsthand and that the Hungarian observation teams report was unequivocally positive.
The Hungarian prime minister also underscored the importance of peace, aligning Georgia’s foreign policy with Hungary’s own peace-oriented stance—especially relevant given Hungary’s proximity to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He noted that Hungary “understands the Georgian people's choice” to prioritize peace, emphasizing that both countries value stability and the avoidance of conflict.
Discussing Georgia’s path toward European Union integration, PM Orbán praised the constitutional mandate that commits Georgia to pursue EU membership, calling it a unique demonstration of Georgia’s commitment to European unity. He emphasized that this dedication is especially significant, given that even opposition groups in Georgia support EU accession.
According to PM Orbán, “Georgia may be the only country whose constitution explicitly requires striving for EU membership.” This commitment, he remarked, signals the country’s readiness for a future within the Union.
Prime Minister Orbán then outlined Hungary’s role in supporting Georgia’s EU aspirations. He confirmed that Hungarian specialists are already active in Tbilisi and will continue to offer assistance in strategic areas. He also highlighted an ambitious EU-led energy project involving Georgia, Azerbaijan, Romania, and Hungary, aimed at delivering green energy from the Caucasus to Europe. This partnership, he stated, is both strategically significant for Hungary and one of the EU’s most important energy collaborations, further showcasing Georgia’s vital role in Europe’s future.
In addition to strategic cooperation, Hungary has deepened educational ties by offering annual scholarships to 80 Georgian students—a program that has seen high demand, reinforcing the close relationship between the two countries.
The prime minister addressed recent European criticisms of Georgia’s democratic process, advising Georgians to take these in stride. “Even though the election results are clear, and the election itself was free and democratic, there will still be debates in Europe about your election,” he said, noting that “when liberals win, democracy is upheld; when conservatives win, democracy is questioned.”
In closing, PM Orbán reiterated Hungary’s commitment to its partnership with Georgia, pledging continued collaboration on projects that reinforce their shared vision for a strong, peaceful, and integrated Europe.
