There are daily consultations between the V4 states with regard to the pandemic situation, PM Orban told pubic radio this morning. The Hungarian premier said there was no need to be afraid of Brussels’ criticism, because – based on the scenarios that have played out so far – they will acknowledge that the Central European model is working, and they will decide to implement it.

„Hungary must remain functional, we cannot allow the virus to paralyse the country,” Viktor Orban told Hungary s public radio in his Friday morning interview. The prime minister pointed out that Hungary has been among the most successful countries in the world in terms of pandemic defence, adding however, that maintaining success comes with responsibility.

Several anti-mask demonstrations have been staged across the country, with the primary message that the government should not restrict human freedoms by making face masks mandatory. Mr Orban said this was indeed a restriction of liberty, but there was an epidemic and the protection of people came first. „This is not the time for us to exercise patience to one in a hundred of our fellow citizens who thinks that way” he said.

Prime Minister Orban also underlined that there s a close cooperation between the V4 countries when it comes to defending against the virus, something he described as our „common historical destiny.” Thus, it comes as no surprise that the defense mechanisms applied in Central Europe are also similar. There s no need to be afraid of how Brussels has reacted to Hungary s border closure measures, bacause they will also come to see that this was a good step, and they will do the same, the prime minister added.

PM Orban also spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel and US President Donald Trump on the phone. He said what the US and Germany represent are good for Central Europe, adding that it is always possible to learn from each other, even if the heads of government are rarely willing to admit it. Prime Minister Orban pointed out that the government is always open to the opinion of other political leaders, as well as that of the Hungarian people. Consultations are ongoing as „no one can be smart enough alone”. Mr Orban emphasized that the national consultation was also a major cornerstone of Hungary s pandemic response plan.