Budapest, 2 March 2024 (TDI): Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary announced today the initiation of a far-reaching cooperation program with Chad.
The program aims to bolster security and stability in the Sahel region, foster economic development, and address the root causes of migration.
In a joint press conference with Chad’s counterpart, Mahamat Saleh Annadif, Szijjártó underscored the contemporary global challenges, particularly the escalating terrorism intertwined with illegal migration.
He said that terrorism and migration are linked. Sometimes, migrants can become terrorists or help them.
Szijjártó also highlighted the European Union’s vulnerability to increased illegal migration and stressed the significance of international collaboration for regional stability.
During the meeting, he also addressed the pressing issues in Africa. He underscored the rapid population growth and its economic implications.
In addition, he emphasized the need for European support in confronting the growing terrorist threat and fostering economic development in African nations.
He added that Chad is known for being stable and for fighting terrorism. It’s an important partner for Hungary. They’re working together on a big plan to make the Sahel region more stable and reduce migration.
The cooperation program seeks to enhance security in Chad and the Sahel and help their economies so fewer people feel they have to migrate. As part of this cooperation, Hungary will open an office in N’Djamena to work together more closely. It will start in mid-March.
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Hungary has also provided substantial assistance to Chad, including support for refugee care systems, healthcare services, and agriculture development programs.
Focus on water management
Szijjártó expressed Hungary’s desire to help Chad with its water management. They will give a lot of support to make sure people have clean drinking water which is very important for everyone in the region.
Furthermore he also expressed their views on the international front. He reaffirmed Hungary’s commitment to peace, advocating for diplomatic solutions over military interventions.
Moreover, regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Hungary intends to allocate its contribution to the European Peace Facility to establish an education center in Chad. This center will facilitate the training of local military officers and bolster the capabilities of Chad’s defense forces.
