The Hungarian government is taking successful action against anti-Semitism, Justice Minister Judit Varga said in a Facebook comment on Monday afternoon in response to a statement made by the German Minister of State for Europe.

“I responded to Michael Roth’s statement of 21 August in an official letter. In his statement, he accused Hungary – among others – of anti-Semitism. In contrast, the truth is that the Hungarian government announced zero tolerance against anti-Semitism, and in contrast to other European countries, we are taking successful action against it,” Ms. Varga wrote.

The statement of the German social democrat minister of state is yet another example of double standards and unfounded accusations with which – with reference to common European values – he seeks to put pressure on the democratically elected governments of several Member States, including Hungary. Now everyone can see what can be expected if issues related to the rule of law are politicised, and budgetary sanctions are introduced based on vague concepts and non-transparent procedures, the Minister wrote.

She added that the German Minister of State’s words seriously call into question his commitment to sincere cooperation. His statement jeopardises not only mutual trust among Member States, but also solidarity. Germany assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union at a time when unity and cooperation are absolutely key.

“Let us find common answers to the challenges the European Union is compelled to face. In this, Hungary will continue to remain a reliable partner of the Germany presidency. However, our position remains clear: the dialogue on the rule of law must be based on facts. This is the only way we can put an end to the vicious circle of political accusations where ideological and political considerations count for more than facts,” Ms. Varga pointed out.

On Saturday, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said in response to the statement of the German Minister of State that in Hungary the Jewish community is safe. He asked the Minister of State to stop his unfair attack on the Hungarian people, and suggested that next time he feels inclined to speak up on such a serious matter, he should look around his own backyard first.

On Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade summoned the German ambassador to Budapest due to Mr Roth’s statement.

(MTI/Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister)