Officials from the European Commission will convene with Péter Magyar’s new team this Friday, as Brussels hurriedly works to disburse EU funds that have been stalled under the current Orbán government.
Magyar achieved a resounding win in the election held last Sunday, bringing Viktor Orbán's 16-year leadership to a close.
A crucial campaign promise was to reestablish Hungary's relationship with the EU and to release billions in funding that had been frozen due to concerns regarding rule-of-law and corruption. Out of the €27bn allocated for Hungary, €17bn is still on hold.
"The clock is running out on various issues, whether it's regarding the Ukraine loan or the Next Generation EU funds." "Commission Spokesperson Paula Pinho stated that it is advantageous for Hungary and the EU to advance as quickly as we can."
Euronews reports that the EU delegation will comprise specialists from the budget and the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) — the EU's fund for post-Covid recovery. They are anticipated to offer technical support to Magyar’s team to aid in revising legislation in Hungary.
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"There is a large selection to select from, and these are initial discussions." "Uncertain if we'll manage to address all issues," Pinho remarked.
The issue of recovery funds is especially pressing: Hungary risks losing almost €10bn if payments are not made by the end of August.
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On Monday, Magyar presented a four-part strategy to fulfill the requirements for accessing the funds, which involves joining the European Public Prosecutor's Office, reinstating judicial independence, and protecting academic freedom.
Magyar has already conversed twice with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, who promised her backing. Brussels' choice to dispatch a delegation merely five days after the vote is largely seen as a political message in its own right.
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"Ursula von der Leyen stated in a social media post after her conversation with Magyar on Wednesday, that prompt action is required to restore, realign, and reform."