The distribution of the EU recovery package must be just and free from politics, Government Spokesperson Alexandra Szentkirályi said on the public service television news channel M1 on Thursday evening.

In connection with the package worth EUR 750 billion, the spokesperson said Hungary does not need this load as it managed the crisis caused by the coronavirus epidemic well; however, it is showing solidarity with the countries now in trouble and will not prevent the adoption of the package. At the same time, it is unable to accept that “the Hungarian people should be told from Brussels what they should spend this money on”.

A condition of Hungary’s support is that the distribution of funds should be fair and free from politics, and that each Member State should be free to decide about their utilisation, given that they know best what they need most, Ms. Szentkirályi said.

The government spokesperson also said due to the coronavirus epidemic, the 20 August fireworks display, air display and series of celebrations will be cancelled this year; only the officer inauguration ceremony will be held.

At present, the situation is good in the country; this must be preserved by avoiding the development of epicentres and mass infections, Ms. Szentkirályi added.

(Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister/MTI)