The European Commission and Hungary seem to agree on the allocation of billions of EU grants. Yesterday the responsible European Commissioner Johannes Hahn said that the doubts had been dispelled, but according to PvdA MEP Thijs Reuten it is not yet that far. ‘Seeing is believing.’
The European Commission is blocking the payment of more than 21 billion euros in so-called cohesion grants, because Hungary would undermine the rule of law. Among other things, it was agreed that the Hungarian Council for Justice would have a greater say and judges should be able to refer cases more easily to the European Court of Justice.
Reuten has its doubts. ‘We have seen more often, especially from Hungary, people clamoring for an agreement. But it turned out to be different in the end. Seeing is believing.’
First he wants to see in detail what has been agreed and whether the reforms can be controlled. ‘We have to be alert. Last week, for example, a law was passed banning teachers from going on strike. These are things that do not suit the European Union.’
‘We have seen more often, especially from Hungary, people clamoring for an agreement. But it turned out to be different in the end. ‘
Flag not out yet
As far as Reuten is concerned, it must first be checked whether the reforms have actually been implemented. “If it’s okay, then I’m fine. But this has to be controllable,’ says Reuten. “If we do unlock the money, we also need to make sure it’s well spent and doesn’t go away to Prime Minister Orban’s businesses or connections.”
The European Commission will now evaluate Hungary’s package of measures, after which the European Parliament will also say something about it. And then the Commission has yet to approve measures to free up the money. “They’re already waving the flag in Hungary, but we’re not there yet,” says Reuten.
Inflation
Hungary desperately needs money from Europe, says Reuten. ‘Things are really not going well there, inflation at 25% is much higher than in the Netherlands and the rest of the European Union. “The economy is not doing well, it’s actually a dire need for Hungary to adjust.”
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
