Hungarian-Dutch relations warm up after tense period

BUDAPEST, March 11 (Xinhua) -- The relations between Hungary and the Netherlands were warming up after the recognition of the importance of business ties and NATO partnership, according to the foreign ministers of the two countries who met here on Monday.

"Hungary and the Netherlands look at the world from different aspects, but despite the different approaches, if they remain on the basis of mutual respect, they can talk through a lot," Peter Szijarto, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade told here at a joint press conference with his Dutch counterpart Stef Blok.

"Hungary will give and expect respect, but demands that it be recognized, that only the Hungarians can decide on the future Hungary," Szijjarto underlined.

He noted: "In terms of Hungarian-Dutch relations, economic and defense successes are being prioritized, and the calm discussions will contribute to cooperation rather than discords."

Blok stressed that bilateral relations were strong, "Hungary and the Netherlands are allies in NATO, partners in the EU, and share close economic ties."

"As partners, we can also discuss disagreements and share our concerns," he said, adding that it was okay to disagree, but a respectful and open dialogue was needed to do so.

relations between the two countries worsened in 2017 August, when Hungary recalled its ambassador from the Hague, after outgoing Dutch ambassador to Hungary Gajus Scheltema harshly criticized the government of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the political opposition weekly "168 ora" (168 hours).