In his reply written to the General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), Prime Minister Viktor Orbán drew attention to the Hungarian workfare economy and the Hungarian experiences gained in the protection of jobs.
In an open letter, Luca Visentini recently expressed concerns over the measures which the Hungarian government is planning to implement in the interest of alleviating the economic losses caused by the coronavirus epidemic.
According to the information of Bertalan Havasi, the Prime Minister’s press chief, in his reply Mr Orbán wrote that “it is a rare privilege for a Hungarian prime minister to receive a letter from you. The economic ailments caused by the present coronavirus epidemic doubtless warrant your special gesture. I am happy to observe that you are keeping track of the efforts made by the Hungarian government and the Hungarian people in the interest of conquering the coronavirus.”
The Prime Minister said it is encouraging that even in a difficult situation such as the present one we can rely on the attention of trade unions. He reassured the General Secretary that “we are convinced that our intentions and goals fully coincide also at this time”.
Mr Orbán reminded Mr Visentini that in the past ten years, Hungary – perhaps as the only country in Europe – has managed to build a workfare economy. “As I’m sure you are aware, we brought unemployment to its knees which was well above ten per cent during the period before we took office. This means that during its present crisis management measures the Hungarian government can confidently rely on the experiences of the policies adopted in the wake of the 2009 crisis,” he continued.
The Prime Minister observed that also in the past ten years they have been open to sharing Hungary’s experiences with anyone showing interest.
He pointed out that the goal of preserving jobs and creating new ones is at the centre of the government’s crisis management programme.
“I can reassure you that we will create as many jobs as wiped out by the coronavirus.”
“On behalf of the Hungarian people, I wish to thank you for your sympathy, solidarity and encouragement,” Mr Orbán wrote concluding his letter to the General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation.
(Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister)
