The Hungarian Parliament appears ready to move forward on Finland and Sweden’s bids to join NATO, according to Deputy Speaker Csaba Hende. Reports from Yle indicate there are no formal barriers in Budapest to approving the two Nordic applications.
On a visit to Sweden, the Hungarian parliamentary delegation met with Speaker Andreas Norlen and discussed the path ahead. Hende characterized the talks as cordial and signaled a fresh, constructive phase in the relationship between Hungary and Sweden.
“The government in Budapest, the president, and the clear majority of parliamentarians stand in support of Sweden becoming a NATO member,” Hende stated, outlining a unified stance from Hungary on the alliance expansion.
Even as support is stated, the Hungarian delegation emphasized a desire to strengthen bilateral ties with Sweden. Hende noted that some Swedish political figures have aired criticisms about Hungary, including concerns over the rule of law, and urged a balanced, fact-based exchange to address such perceptions.
The delegation is scheduled to continue its engagements in Helsinki the following day, with planned discussions in the Finnish parliament aimed at aligning positions and advancing mutual understanding on the NATO accession matter.
In a broader parliamentary context, discussions around the ratification of the protocol admitting Sweden and Finland to NATO have been part of an ongoing process within the National Assembly. The vote on this protocol had previously been postponed, with a new decision timeline indicated beyond March 20, 2023, reflecting the careful consideration given to regional security commitments.
Laszlo Kever, Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament, emphasized that deputies from the governing coalition view the issue of NATO accession for Sweden and Finland as a live, evolving topic rather than a resolved matter. This stance underscores a prudent approach to alliance expansion, with due regard for national interests and regional stability.
President Katalin Novak reiterated that the parliament is expected to convene in May to finalize discussions and approve documents related to the Nordic members’ NATO accession process, signaling ongoing parliamentary oversight and legitimacy for the move.
It is notable that, among NATO members, Turkey and Hungary have yet to ratify the protocol concerning Finland and Sweden’s entry, illustrating the remaining diplomatic steps required to secure full compliance across all allied nations.