Gergely Gulyás, the head of the Prime Minister’s Office, has said the government’s clearly expressed expectation was that when the world marker price of fuel drops, it should be reflected in domestic retail prices. There are various forms of intervention, “we prefer dialogue” which has been successful so far, he said.
Asked why the 100,000 forint school-starter support granted to ethnic Hungarians beyond the borders was not extended to Hungarians at home, he said those with children in Hungary were already getting numerous forms of support and tax benefits, while those beyond the borders were getting “nothing”.
Commenting on claims that the state had bought three office buildings at excessive prices, he said it was the best solution to stop paying annual rent and instead move the state’s institutions to properties of its own. He added that an annual 60 billion forints was paid for rent, and by buying the buildings, this investment would return in 9-10 years. He also said that they were extremely energy efficient buildings that are suitable for special government demands. He added that he did not consider the purchase “a bad deal”.
Commenting on the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the fights spreading over to Russian areas, he said the government’s position was unchanged in that ceasefire and peace talks were needed and all developments that go against this were disagreeable. He also said that the warring sides should handle all issues concerning energy security keeping in mind that they are not only disputes between them but matters that are important to the whole of Europe’s energy security.
Concerning plans for a fast railway link between the city and Liszt Ferenc International Airport, he said the question is not whether this would be built, but when it would happen. If it is not connected to existing tracks, then implementation could take longer, around 4-5 years. A decision in the matter is expected this year, he added.
In response to a question, Gulyás said the explosions on the Nord Stream pipeline were acts of terrorism. “There are means that are unacceptable even if someone is under attack,” he added. Ever since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, Hungary understands that there is a risk that the operation of the Friendship Pipeline becomes impossible. It is partly why Hungary has such considerable reserves of natural gas and crude oil, unmatched by most European countries, he added. Gulyás said that “according to the current situation”, some 56% of annual consumption is ensured in the country.