Paul Fox brit nagykövet: Európának akkor is fegyverkeznie kell, ha ez áldozatokkal jár

Summary

In this in-depth interview, Paul Fox, UK Ambassador to Hungary, addresses a range of pressing issues, from domestic Hungarian politics to international conflicts. He discusses concerns about political discourse in Hungary, including minority rights and freedom of expression, while clarifying the role of the embassy. Fox also reflects on his experiences in Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine to uphold European security and the international rules-based order. Additionally, he touches on European defense spending, technological investments, and UK-Hungary economic relations, offering nuanced insights into diplomacy, security, and international cooperation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Paul Fox criticized the radicalization of political discourse in Hungary, including the demonization of minorities, banning of Pride events, and threats toward domestic critics.
• 😀 His speech was directed at the general Hungarian public to raise awareness, not to intervene in government affairs or support specific political parties.
• 😀 The Hungarian government did not officially reprimand him; only informal, friendly discussions took place with officials like Defense Minister Kristoff Solo Brainitzky.
• 😀 Fox chose not to attend the Pride march to allow local participation to dominate and avoid any diplomatic complications.
• 😀 He served in Russia from 2018–2019 and described the Ukraine conflict at that time as a 'frozen conflict' that could have potentially been avoided.
• 😀 Fox rejects the narrative that NATO expansion provoked Russia; he views Russia's invasion of Ukraine as an imperialist mission to reassert influence.
• 😀 The UK believes Ukraine must prevail, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sovereignty, territorial integrity, and a rules-based international order.
• 😀 Territorial negotiations and post-war security measures must involve Ukraine as a key decision-maker; long-term peace cannot be imposed without its consent.
• 😀 Increased European defense spending, including the UK's commitment to 5% GDP by 2035, is justified to counter conventional threats, hybrid warfare, and cyber attacks.
• 😀 UK-Hungary economic relations remain strong, with the UK as Hungary’s fourth-largest trading partner, significant investments, and employment, despite occasional concerns about Hungary's business environment.
• 😀 Fox maintains a professional and open diplomatic relationship with the Hungarian government, recognizing Hungary as a democracy with challenges but still capable of constructive dialogue.
• 😀 He emphasized the need for Europe to balance military spending with investments in technology and social welfare, and highlighted the importance of peaceful protest and adherence to international law.
• 😀 Fox described personal interactions with Viktor Orbán and other Hungarian officials as cordial, noting that Hungary’s future political landscape could see new leaders like Peter Szijjártó rise.

Q & A

What were the main points of criticism Paul Fox raised about Hungary's political discourse?

Paul Fox criticized Hungary's political discourse for demonizing minorities, attempting to ban Pride events, and threatening domestic critics of the government. He aimed to raise awareness rather than intervene politically.

Why did the UK embassy and Paul Fox not attend Hungary’s Pride event?

The embassy chose not to attend to avoid potential legal and diplomatic complications from the government’s warnings. The decision prioritized allowing the event to succeed with strong public turnout rather than official diplomatic presence.

How did Paul Fox describe Hungary’s current political system?

Fox stated that Hungary remains a democracy, though it faces certain challenges. He emphasized that disagreements with the government do not equate to an absence of democratic governance.

What was Paul Fox’s assessment of Russia’s intentions regarding Ukraine?

Fox viewed Russia’s actions as imperialist, aimed at reestablishing a sphere of influence rather than responding to NATO threats. He emphasized that aggression should not succeed and that Ukraine's sovereignty must be respected.

What is the UK’s position on supporting Ukraine in the ongoing conflict?

The UK believes Ukraine must prevail, supporting it financially, militarily, and through security guarantees. The UK emphasizes that Ukraine must have a determining voice in any peace negotiations, including territorial matters.

What is the purpose of the 'coalition of the willing' mentioned by Fox?

The coalition aims to demonstrate European and allied support for Ukraine, prepare for post-settlement peace, and ensure that Russia cannot regroup and rearm. Its objective is not to prolong the war but to ensure a durable and sustainable peace.

How does Paul Fox justify increased defense spending in Europe?

Fox argues that increased defense spending is necessary to confront threats from Russia and hybrid warfare effectively. The spending is balanced between conventional forces and capabilities to counter cyber and hybrid threats, despite potential social spending sacrifices.

How does the UK government respond to criticism regarding double standards in foreign policy?

The UK maintains that it applies one standard: adherence to international law. Actions like proscribing violent organizations focus on illegal activity, not peaceful protest. Criticism of Israel is accompanied by sanctions and diplomatic pressure while ensuring aid can flow to Gaza.

What is the current state of economic relations between Hungary and the UK?

Economic relations are strong. The UK is Hungary’s fourth-largest trading partner, with substantial investment employing over 50,000 Hungarians. British companies, like Tesco, are considered safe and supported by trade initiatives, despite Hungary's promotion of national champions in certain sectors.

How does Paul Fox describe his professional relationship with the Hungarian government?

Fox describes the relationship as professional and open, characterized by dialogue even during disagreements. He contrasts this with his experience in Russia, emphasizing the ability to engage freely in Hungary without harming diplomatic relations.

What concerns did Fox raise regarding social and technological priorities in Europe?

Fox acknowledged concerns that increased defense spending could affect social services. However, he stressed that military investment is necessary for security and can complement technological development. He also noted the importance of growth and investment in new technologies like AI and nuclear energy.

Has Paul Fox met with Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and how does he describe those encounters?

Yes, Fox met Orban on several occasions. He described personal encounters as cordial and charming, particularly during social events, while professional meetings were characterized by frank and open dialogue.