V. Orban: climate change politics should be guided by common sense

International climate policy should be based on practical human interests

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said that international climate policy should not be based on ideology but on people's practical interests. In his speech at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP-29) in Baku, Orban stressed that climate policy planning must be thoughtful and consider society's interests and needs.

V. Orban made it clear that climate policy should not be driven by "ideologies, alarmism or scaremongering", but should be based on "common sense" and "the interests of the people". This approach shows his ambition to lead Hungary and other countries towards a pragmatic approach to climate protection. "Our climate policy must be carefully planned and based on common sense," Orban said, stressing that his priority is to protect the public interest without ideological pressure.

Declaration signed in Budapest: a new approach to European competitiveness

V. Orban also pointed out that the issue of climate protection was prominently featured in the Declaration on a New European Competitiveness adopted at the European Political Community Summit in Budapest on 7 November. In the Budapest Declaration, Hungary, together with other European countries, called for a more competitive but environmentally friendly Europe, where climate policy does not interfere with economic growth and national interests.

The Prime Minister also stressed that the Hungarian government has set an ambitious target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions further. Previously, Hungary had set itself the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 compared to 1990, but this target has now been increased to 50%. Orban said the move would help ensure the country's climate neutrality and sustainable economic development.

Nuclear and alternative energy are cited as part of the solution

V. Orban stressed that Hungary will rely on nuclear and alternative energy to achieve its climate goals. Currently, nuclear energy accounts for a large share of Hungary's total electricity production, and the aim is to increase this to 70%. Orbán stressed that this decision will help Hungary become more independent from external energy sources while simultaneously meeting its climate targets.

The Prime minister recalled that the climate neutrality targets must be achieved without unjustified commitments that would constrain European economies and damage national interests. He said climate policy must not be extreme but reflect people's expectations and practical solutions that do not undermine national sovereignty.

V. Orban's position reaffirms Hungary's desire to maintain an independent and pragmatic approach to climate preservation while avoiding undue ideological pressure. This common-sense and pragmatic approach makes climate policy more inclusive, ensuring that the Hungarian people feel heard and represented in this important discourse.