Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said on Monday that Hungary should increase its contribution to the international coalition fighting terrorism and the terrorist organisation Islamic State (ISIS) in particular.
Addressing lawmakers before a parliamentary session, Péter Szijjártó said that Hungary could realistically contribute to the efforts of helping create military stability in Kurdistan. He added that allies were maintaining training bases in Kurdistan and these must be secured. After consultations with parliamentary parties, a decision should be made on Hungary’s potential role in the mission – taking into consideration Hungary's budgetary capacities, risk-taking potential and defence capabilities, Péter Szijjártó said. Mr Szijjártó stressed that ISIS poses a threat to global security and the stability of the whole Middle East. It also threatens the "very existence" of Christian communities in the region, the minister said.
According to Mr Szijjártó, the execution of the 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians has been a clear sign of the systematic attacks of ISIS against Christians. He noted that the Hungarian government will provide financial support worth EUR 500 for the families of the executed Christians so that they can start to live an independent life.
Also, he reminded that after the events of the recent past, such as the Paris and Copenhagen attacks, it is clear that "we have never faced a terrorist threat that would have been so direct and near."