Hungary and United Arab Emirates Forge Military and Defence Industrial Cooperation.

Hungary and the United Arab Emirates have initiated discussions aimed at fostering strategic cooperation. Hungarian Defense Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky engaged in talks with Minister of State for Defense Affairs Mohammed Fadel Al Mazrouei in the United Arab Emirates, exploring avenues for collaboration in this crucial domain. This information was made public by the Hungarian Ministry of Defense on April 22, 2024.
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Szalay-Bobrovniczky Kristóf, Hungarian Ministry of Defense, Dr. Károly Benes, Hungarian Ambassador to Abu Dhabi, and Saud al-Shamsi, Emirates Ambassador to Budapest. (Picture source: Hungarian MoD)

The signing of a cooperation agreement marks the official beginning of efforts to coordinate military cooperation between the two nations. Hungarian Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky emphasized the importance of this agreement, stressing the need to assess the defense capabilities of both countries while identifying common interests in research, development, and innovation in the defense sector.

"As conflicts intensify, Hungary remains committed to seeking peace. However, recognizing the evolving landscape of international affairs, our government has prioritized enhancing Hungary's defense capabilities," said Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky. "This agreement marks a step towards ensuring the unwavering combat capability and deterrent capability of the Hungarian Defense Forces, equipped with state-of-the-art military technology and staffed by highly qualified personnel. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for the defense industry to significantly contribute to economic growth."

The minister highlighted the potential benefits of strengthening ties with the United Arab Emirates, a nation boasting considerable economic and military power in the Gulf region. He emphasized the alignment between this cooperation and Hungary's ongoing armed forces development program, particularly in military research, innovation, and equipment manufacturing.

"As a member of the European Union and NATO, Hungary recognizes the importance of strengthening ties with nations in the Middle East and North Africa," Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky underscored. "From counter-terrorism efforts to border security measures, cooperation in this region is crucial."

Citing the Russo-Ukrainian conflict as a pertinent example, the minister emphasized the interconnectedness of global security issues. In this context, the role of the United Arab Emirates in combating international terrorism and promoting stability in the Middle East and North Africa is highly relevant.

"The security of commercial navigation in the Red Sea and the mitigation of tensions in the Middle East are priorities for both Europe and the Gulf states," Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky added, highlighting the common interests underpinning cooperation between Hungary and the United Arab Emirates.

As both nations advance in their partnership, the prospects for enhanced military and defense industrial cooperation promise regional stability and economic growth. With mutual interests at the forefront, this alliance paves the way for deeper engagement in addressing complex security challenges on a global scale. However, the exact details of this cooperation have not yet been detailed.

Defense News April 2024