In meetings with Hungarian officials, Melia “encouraged the Hungarian government to enhance its anti-corruption efforts” and he also encouraged further cooperation with civil society organisations “that focus on transparency and good governance.”

The deputy assistant secretary also welcomed the government’s efforts to engage with the Jewish community but noted “ongoing concerns” concerning the government’s relationship with religious groups.

The government should “revise substantially” the law on recognition of religions, “as called for in recent decisions by both the Hungarian Constitutional Court and the European Court of Human Rights,” the statement said.

Melia also met various opposition representatives and said that the US “continues to advocate for implementation of OSCE election recommendations as part of ensuring a level playing field for all political parties in Hungarian elections.” Referring to the situation in Ukraine, Melia underlined the importance of maintaining effective targeted sanctions against Russia.

Source www.hungarymatters.hu

Follow that link to sign-up for MTI’s twice-daily newsletter.